The concept of climate change is nothing new, but the specifics can be confusing. Essentially, ongoing shifts in weather patterns and temperature create warming and cooling cycles for our planet that lead to climate variability, aka climate change. Although the planet can naturally enter new climate set points, humans are undoubtedly speeding up the process.
Our influence has led to anthropogenic climate change, an ever-present and ever-growing problem for us and our environment. Increased sea levels, extreme weather, loss of biodiversity, and loss of resources are just the tip of the iceberg. No matter how you spin it, things are changing – and, in this case, it’s not for the better.
We have an impact on our environment.
The largest driver of anthropogenic climate change is the greenhouse gas effect. The industrial revolution created an influx of emissions which then get trapped in our atmosphere and limit the amount of solar radiation (i.e. heat) that can escape. Like a greenhouse, this creates a warmer environment that then has a ripple effect on the entire world.
Although the greatest contributors to climate change are corporations, the power of the individual should not be ignored. We can have negative or positive impacts on our environment. Therefore, we can and should put forth an effort to reduce our environmental impact.
How to lower your environmental footprint:
First, think about where you may fall short.
Sizing up the role you play in the grand scheme of things may be a daunting, almost existential, task but it’s a necessary part of learning how you can lower your environmental footprint. It’s nothing personal, but it’s important to know what you’re bringing to the table. You can tackle this in a variety of different ways, just choose one that suits you.
You can start by taking note of your habits and analyzing them. You can also educate yourself further to understand and brainstorm the ways you can grow. You could even try using an online footprint calculator tool to get straight to the point. Whatever route you take, thinking about the impact you have is a crucial first step in determining the problem and what you can do to lessen your impact.
Second, start small.
Once you have narrowed down potential negative habits, it’s time to decide what small changes you can start making. Don’t overburden yourself and try to fix everything at the same time though! That can lead to climate anxiety and burnout which can undermine your efforts. So, try not to overcomplicate it! The main goal isn’t to overwhelm yourself but to make thoughtful decisions that lead to positive lifestyle changes. Doing your part doesn’t have to be complicated, so aim to make incremental changes!
Ideas of small changes to start with:
- Reach for reusable water bottles instead of single-use ones.
- Bring your own produce bags or jars when grocery shopping.
- Switch to LED light bulbs.
- Eat one less meal with meat a week.
Third, keep the ball rolling.
Implementing small swaps to your lifestyle allows you to get acquainted with not only the issue at hand but also shows what you are capable of. Discovering what a more climate-conscientious version of yourself looks like can be exciting and inspiring! So, seeing what you can accomplish will only bolster your ability to enact positive change. Thinking of your impacts on the environment through this positive lens will keep you moving forward without bogging yourself down so you’re instilled with the determination to continue on the path to a greener you.
Let's focus on fostering positive change in the world.
With these steps, I hope you can become empowered to think about the larger impact you have. We as individuals have the power to enact change that leads to broader, more impactful change that we, and our planet, desperately need. Climate issues can seem daunting, but we can shift perspective and focus on fostering positive change – one step at a time.