The year 2020 was a great example of how worse things can get when we humans do not stop messing around with the planet. The Amazon fire, Australian bushfires, tsunamis, climate changes, the cyclones across the globe, and the list is never-ending. And trust me, they are just the start of our downfall if we do not stop.
Finally, when the pandemic forced all of us within locked doors, that’s when nature was finally healing itself. But now, when things are getting back to normal, things are only getting worse.
The lockdown definitely hit us with a realization that there isn’t much that you have to do in order to save nature. In fact, the earth heals itself, but only if we let it. Whether you are a student, a working professional, or a homemaker, all of us can contribute to the environment and try to make it a better place. And trust me, it is not much you will have to do.
Below, I’ve compiled 5 things that you can do to make a real and positive impact to save our planet.
1. No plastic bags
Right from childhood, we were taught not to use plastic bags but we, as world citizens have never really taken it seriously.
Definitely, plastic bags are easily available, cheap, and quite handy at times. But the thing is, all of this doesn’t cover up for the fact that they are the 3rd biggest ocean polluters and probably one of the hardest things in the world to dispose of.
In fact, there are water animals worldwide choking on plastic only to die. Besides, plastic has so many substitutes easily available. All you need to do is make an effort to not use plastic as much as possible.
2. Plant trees
Can you imagine how quickly the crux of global warming will resolve itself if even half of the world population plant a single tree? Something as basic as planting trees can save us from extreme weather patterns.
So, without giving a second thought, plant a tree today and you will be done a lot more than what has been asked of you.
3. Don’t waste energy
Most people think that because you have been paying for electricity, you can also waste it. But you fail to understand that there is a limited supply of energy and if you consume it mindlessly, it impacts nature.
Today, we are all surrounded by electronic devices at all times. This is the modern world’s need; you cannot help with that. But you can definitely make it a point to not waste electricity, and turn off the devices when not in use.
Not only will your monthly electricity bill reduce but you will also be contributing to the planet.
4. Conscious consumption of water
While you have your tap water constantly dripping, there are parts of the world where people die daily due to dehydration and malnutrition. When you dig deep into the numbers, you will be shocked to know how much water is wasted, every day.
This needs to change and like it’s said, change begins at home. So, don’t waste water. No more dripping taps and then gradually move to taking 5-minute showers, rather than showering for hours. In fact, something as basic as turning off the tap while brushing can do wonders.
5. Switch to solar energy
Although not everyone reading this will be able to switch to solar energy sources, but for those who can, this can be one of the best decisions you have ever made, both financially, as well as morally.
Solar panels, solar inverters for PV systems, might look like quite a big investment initially but in due time, you will realize how this clean source of energy helps you save a lot of money and even provides relief from long and frequent power cuts. These are the major reasons why you must encourage people to switch to solar energy.
It might not seem as important and urgent as it actually is but honestly, humans are themselves the biggest danger to fellow humans and to this beautiful planet. But if you want, you can alter that!
I like the tips you provided for reducing water waste. One more important thing I want to add is addressing plumbing leaks. A leaking toilet is one of the most common reasons for using too much water, and sometimes, there is no clear sign of a leaking toilet – not all leaks are that obvious. One thing you can try is adding some food coloring to the tank before you go to bed. When you use it in the morning, check if any of the colored water has seeped into the bowl. If it has, there’s a hidden leak that needs to be fixed.