Protect the Environment
Protecting the environment is essential if we want to preserve the flora and fauna of the natural world for future generations. Below are 10 simple ways to conserve the environment. So why not start now?
- Save water.
Install a water saving device in your taps, toilets and showers. Turn off the tap when you brush your teeth and collect rainwater to water your back yard with instead of using a hose. Simple acts like this can all add up and you can save gallons of water every day.
- Go vegan.
Animal agriculture takes up vast swathes of land and emits huge amounts of gases. In addition, animal agriculture is responsible for deforestation as forests are cut down to make room for pastures or for crops for animals to eat. Get your energy from a plant based diet and help to save the environment.
- Take public transport whenever possible.
Reduce your carbon footprint by taking the train or bus to work – or walking, which is very healthy in addition. You will also save money by not purchasing a gas guzzling car. And, when it comes to air travel, try and limit your carbon emissions by taking the sleeper train instead of shorter distance flights. Plane travel is one of the biggest contributors of greenhouse gases that come from private individuals rather than corporations.
- Buy responsibly.
Buy items that will last – do not succumb to the culture of ‘fast fashion’ and buy cheap clothing that wears out quickly and ends up in landfill. Look for ethical, vegan companies with a low carbon footprint if possible. Your buying habits can protect the environment!
- Recycle.
Don’t contribute to the islands of trash floating in our oceans. Recycle and reuse packaging and other waste materials wherever possible to help save the environment. You can even recycle when you are away from home. For example, why not bring your own travel mug to cafes instead of taking away a paper cup which is not always recyclable.
- Take community action.
Become a conservation activist. Writer letters, attend demonstrations and educate others about how to save the environment. Let corporations with a poor ecological record know that you will take your custom elsewhere unless they change their ways. People power can really get things done!
- Sponsor an animal.
Zoos are home to many endangered animals, and they will often let you sponsor one to help to contribute to its food, shelter and general upkeep. You will usually get a certificate and regular updates when you sponsor an animal, and this can make a wonderful birthday gift as well.
- Avoid fossil fuels.
Save fuel by insulating your home with double glazing and sealants for cracks. Choose green fuels and power sources such as wind and solar energy instead of fossil fuels like coal which contribute to the greenhouse effect. Making the switch is easier than you might think, and you may be surprised to know that you can use solar energy in the winter, too!
- Plant trees.
Cultivate wild spaces in your back yard, or engage in community reforestation projects. Even the simple act of planting bee or butterfly friendly plants in your garden can really help to boost populations of these beautiful (yet often struggling) insect populations in your local area.
- Appreciate the environment.
It is hard to feel motivated to save the environment when we feel disconnected from it. So, take time to appreciate the environment. Go for walks, meditate in a local park or other green space and do a little gardening each weekend. That way, you will realize how much better a gorgeous natural world can make our lives – and this will help to spur you on to take action to conserve the environment for future generations.
Conclusion
It is vital that we all act now if we are to halt global warming and prevent the mass extinction of many of our beloved species of plants and animals. Luckily, there are plenty of things that you can do in order to protect the environment. And, with all of them, you can start right away. So, adapt your travel plans, get out in the garden and start saving water around the home! Why not try and follow all 10 of these guidelines by the end of the year?
