In recent months, the scientific community has repeatedly sounded the alarm about the biodiversity crisis and the climate emergency. Scientists and most governments agree that the world is facing an unprecedented environmental crisis, with a large number of species on the verge of extinction as global temperatures continue to rise.
Nature-based solutions offer the best way to achieve human well-being, address climate change and protect the planet. However, nature is in crisis. We are losing species at a rate 1,000 times higher than at any other time in human history.
Human beings depend for their survival on stable and healthy ecosystems, and urgent action is required in 2020 to set the world on the path to a more sustainable future.
Think Global, Act Personal - Turn over a new leaf in 2020 and learn some tips on how to incorporate some sustainable goals into your lifestyle:
1. Save water
Don’t leave taps running – whether it’s in the kitchen or bathroom – and close them properly to avoid dripping. Always turn off the shower while shampooing hair and washing body.
2. Say no to single-use plastic
Skip the plastic straw for your drink, fill your own bottle with tap water, get your to-go coffee in a reusable mug, boycott plastic cutlery, invest in a glass or steel lunch box, and always keep a reusable shopping bag with you.
3. Buy less
Think twice before buying anything, whether it’s clothing, food, beauty, or any other stuff. Always ask yourself: “Do I really need this?” And instead of buying new, give a chance to second hand or to give a new use to what you already have.
4. Recycle
It’s our own personal responsibility to make sure plastic, paper, glass, food, metal, textiles, cosmetics and all other consumer waste are properly thrown away, so that can be recycled or discarded.
5. Go natural
Living without chemicals is one of the big steps you must take to avoid many common health problems. Did you know that personal care products are a major source of microplastics? Look for plastic-free facewash, day cream, makeup, deodorant, shampoo and other care products.
6. Local production
Prefer local and national products, seasonal fruits and vegetables, options that are produced as close as possible to your area of residence and have a positive impact on local organizations. This is a way of adding value to our communities and causing less pollution in transportation.
7. Sustainable mobility
Opt for public, shared or alternative transport whenever you can. Cycle or walk for short distances. Skip the car as often as you can and go by bus or train instead of flying. This will reduce the harmful carbon dioxide emissions and other global-warming gasses.
8. Do it yourself
9. Volunteering