We love this quote by oceanographer, Sylvia Earle. She doesn’t mince words and the recent warnings from the IPCC Report make immediate action crucial.
While it’s hard to not be overwhelmed, it is the small daily actions of us all (alongside larger actions) that can make a positive difference. We believe that changing mindsets is key. Focusing on what needs to happen right now and what is right in front of us to do right now, can create change.
Immediate actions you can take:
- Reuse - reuse products, clothing, anything that can be reusable - focus on those products.
- Read labels - know where your clothing and food comes from and try to purchase as locally as possible.
- Bring your mug/lunch container/tote bag/reusable cutlery with you.
- Purchase from stores and suppliers who reflect your values.
- Buy products without too much packaging and ask for less.
- Think zero waste - no plastic packaging or related trash that would be sent to landfill, incinerators or the ocean.
- Purchase from zero waste stores.
- Ask for a zero waste aisle at your local grocery store.
- Consider your investments and invest with companies who put ESG (environmental, social and governance) at their core. These companies will be taking climate risk into consideration.
Terminology:
Zero Waste: This means that no trash will to be sent to landfills, incinerators or the ocean. Currently, only 9% of plastic is actually recycled.
Net Zero: Refers to the balance between the amount of greenhouse gas produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere. We reach net zero when the amount we add is no more than the amount taken away.
ESG: Environmental, social and governance. Investors are increasingly taking an ESG lens when choosing which companies to invest in. ESG often relates to the risk reduction and growth potential of companies that place sustainability at their core.
