5 ways to make every hour Earth Hour
What started as a symbolic moment in Sydney, when 2.2million people turned off their lights to prove to the government that they cared about climate change, has today turned into a global movement. Now in its 10th year it is more prevalent than ever and at 8:30pm on Saturday the 25th of March 2017 the world will once again switch off to support Earth Hour.
There is no denying that our Eco System is in grave danger. We are witnessing a rapid decline in wildlife across land, sea and freshwater, due to habitat loss, degradation and pollution. And scientists predict this will grow exponentially by 2020 as the climate changes and sea levels continue to rise.
As confronting as this is, we cannot forget that our actions today will define our tomorrows.
Here are 5 simple changes we can all make to create a world of difference.
1. DITCH THE PLASTICS
One of the most serious offenders to our environment is plastic bags. Australians use an estimated FOUR BILLION plastic bags every year, which is a MAMMOTH TEN MILLION or so EVERY. DAY. Clean Up Australia estimates that around 150 MILLION of these end up in our waterways and ocean, destroying our marine life.
So make a stand, ditch the plastic bags and use your own reusable shopping bag.
We can easily do without most single plastics. Stop using plastic straws and cutlery, carry your own coffee cup, have a reusable water bottle with you. There are literally hundreds of simple ways to work towards a plastic free life and if you are after inspiration on how you can reduce the waste in your home even further, why not check out Eco Queen The Rogue Ginger.
The motto feels like it has been drilled into us since time began, but it is easy to forget that this adage can be applied to more than just your cardboard and cans.
Mobile phones can be left at Sony Centres, where the money raised from them goes towards building youth cancer centres through You Can.
Prescription glasses can be recycled at HCF and they will repair them to donate to the Lions Recycle for Sight program,where they are distributed amongst communities in Africa, Asia and the Pacific.
Shoes can be given to Soles 4 Souls who collect gently worn and new shoes for children, women and men who are disadvantaged because they do not own shoes or have inadequate footwear.
Bras can be sent to Project Uplift, who will take your used bras and distribute them amongst woman in need and there are thousands of places around the world you can drop them off to.
These are just a few of the ways you can reduce landfill, reuse your products and recycle whilst supporting worthwhile causes. Check out Give Now for more inspiration on how to give back to others and the planet.
3. SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL
Eating locally is beneficial to our economy, our ecosystem and our health, which is why it is so important to support small business and shop local. Doing so will strengthen the economic base of your community and its future, while creating jobs for local residents.
Locally grown produce has less food miles and a shorter journey from farm to table, it also uses less packaging. When you buy local you will be eating what is in season, so the produce tastes its best and is full of vitamins and minerals. Plus shopping locally means you can leave the car at home, reducing your petrol expense and your carbon footprint by walking. Making it a healthier option for you and the environment.
4. KICK THE CHEMICALS
Every day we are all unwillingly exposed to toxins. From the pesticides on our produce, to the chemicals in our cosmetics, even the scourers we use in the kitchen sink. And it doesn’t stop at us.
Every drop of water eventually flows into our rivers and seas, taking with it the plastics and chemicals used in our homes, our farms and industry. This pollutes the environment, kills wildlife and finds its way back to us through the foods we eat.
So become a conscious consumer. Minimise your exposure. Read the labels and think about the chemicals that are hidden in your purchases.
Switch to Organic – By using organic products, you minimize your intake of synthetic chemicals, you reduce animal cruelty and you help encourage sustainable farming practices.
Ban the bead – Stop using toothpaste, body washes and laundry powders that contain micro plastics
Make your own – Try natural, homemade alternatives for your beauty products or mix up a toxin free cleaner for your home Or some other great recipes for floors.
Be informed – When you do go store bought, be sure to check out the Chem free community, a fantastic resource and a wonderful way to be reassured that what you are buying will be kind to you, your families and the planet.
But most importantly…
5. SPREAD THE WORD
Always remember there is power in numbers. So be empowered. Inspire other people to change their habits. Tell them how simple it is. Show them how to choose their climate future.
