Our planet cannot keep pace with the demands we humans make on it because people are turning Earth’s resources into waste faster than nature can turn waste back into resources.
Moving towards sustainability means we must all take action now, remembering that we share the Earth with millions of other species.
Reduce - one of the three Rs of sustainable living
It means cutting down on how much of everything we use, but particularly cutting down on the use of stuff that cannot be replaced (non-renewable) and which cannot decompose (non-biodegradable).
Our Earth has limited resources, many of which can not easily be replaced or renewed; minerals and ores, coal, oil and natural gas; all took millions of years to be produced by the earth, and it’s taking us just a few thousand to bring them close to running out.
The problem isn’t just that we’re going to run out of these substances though. The main problem stems from the fact that digging this stuff out of the earth and using it releases chemicals and compounds that have been tucked away for millions of years, and messes up the world’s delicate balance.
Not only that, but manufacturing products uses up a lot of energy and produces lots of factory waste, so it’s in our best interests to minimise how much stuff we make. In spite of what the adverts are trying to make you believe, consumerism is not sustainable.
So what we need to do is seriously reduce the amount of stuff we use. Which is where a hidden R comes in – replace. Replace responsibly with re-useable and renewable!
Kick the plastic habit
Say no to plastic shopping bags, products like sanitary pads and panty liners which are made from more than 90% plastic, PVC bags and shoes; take-away plastic trays and cups, loads of things you might not even consider are made from plastic.
Buy things to last rather than just for the moment.
Every time you are about to purchase something new, take a moment to reflect on whether you really need it or just want it! Think about what it’s made of, how long it will last and the effect on our planet when you try to dispose of it.
Be green and chic by choosing sensibly and with care for every other species we share the Earth with. They rely on us being good stewards of the planet in order for them to survive.