Today is World Ocean Day! To celebrate the occasion, we've compiled a list of top tips to help you help the planet.
Right now our planet needs kindness. As normal life remains at a standstill due to COVID-19, our rivers are becoming clearer, our mountains are becoming more visible and our air quality is improving.
But climate change is still the biggest issue facing society today. Everything is affected by it – and everything typically comes back to it. And while lasting change needs to come from the top, there are things we can do as individuals to lessen the impact.
Go paperless
Although paper is probably one of the easiest things to recycle, there’s an argument to be made for cutting it out entirely. Doing so would save trees, save water and cut down on the pollution that comes from refining, processing and transporting the finished product.
There are plenty of ways to cut down on your paper usage like digital utility bills, taking notes on a laptop or phone and utilising online textbooks, all of which will have a positive impact on the environment.
Recycle PROPERLY
We speak from experience when we say that recycling properly in a student house is one of the hardest things in the world. Nothing is ever sorted into the correct box, items without the “♻️” are haphazardly thrown in and there’s always one joker who refuses to clean out their passata jars. Check with your local council to see what guidelines they have. It doesn't matter what the packaging says and they will throw whole loads into landfill.
But once you get into the swing of things, recycling can be pretty easy. It also helps keep landfills from piling up, reduces the need for new non-environmentally friendly materials, and leads to a more sustainable production model in a lot of industries.
Reduce and reuse
Similar to the above, reusing non-biodegradable resources or reducing your consumption altogether can have a hugely positive impact on the environment. Acts as small as using a reusable shopping bag can go just as far as repurposing materials in an entirely new way.
Shop sustainably and locally
Obviously this one isn’t going to be possible for everyone, as shopping sustainably typically comes with a higher price tag. But for those with more disposable income, shopping with local and independent grocers, brands and companies can help reduce the impact created by bigger supply chains.
Speaking of supply chains, try to avoid fast fashion as much as possible. Shop around and you should be able to find some more sustainable alternatives and, if all else fails, go thrifting for some vintage pieces and pre-loved steals.
No-one is expecting you to do your big shop at that holistic supermarket down the road or the charming farmers market in town, but just buying your produce or meat for the week at places like that can have a huge impact.
Hopefully, the current situation will be enough of a wakeup call for governments around the world to start taking lasting action against climate change. Until then there are small parts we can play in the collective effort that’s working towards a sustainable future.
Are you passionate about the planet? Join our panel today and let us know! We're always looking to expand our community with additional student voices.
