Every year on the 22nd of April, we celebrate earth day to honor the planet and the way in which it has served us. However, we have not shown the planet the same kindness it has shown us.
Ours is the first generation to feel the effects of climate change and the last that can do anything about it and we must. Human beings are the only species that destroy their own habitat.
Here are a few things you can do today and every other day to honor the planet and its inhabitants.
1. Awareness
It is important to educate yourself and those around you on matters concerning the environment and its degradation. For instance, deforestation, pollution, bio-diversity loss and global warming. Once you are aware of these issues then you can fully grasp what is at hand and be able to do your part. Resources are available all over the internet, all you have to do is search.
2. Minimize on waste
You do not have to throw away every item that you think you are finished with. Especially materials like plastic and textile (fabric) that do not biodegrade easily or at all. The rule is simple; reduce, re-use, recycle. Reduce, meaning lessen the amount of trash you produce. Re-use involves repurposing things, like how we commonly use ice-cream containers for leftovers. Recycling means creating something completely different from the original piece. For example, using fabrics from old clothes to create a tapestry. Get creative, it’s fun. In Kenya, waste isn’t sorted or recycled so you have to do your bit to reduce the amount of trash that ends up in landfill sites such as Dandora.
3. Plant trees
This is a fun way to participate in securing the environment and it is easier than you think. In Kenya, seedlings are available on just about every roadside. All you have to do is purchase one and put it in the ground and of course take care of it thereafter. Trees are important because they absorb carbon dioxide from the air and provide us with oxygen, prevent soil erosion, attract rainfall, are a food source and provide a home for animals. They will also provide shade for your compound.
4. Conserve energy
Conserving energy is as easy as turning your lights off when you’re not using them, investing in thermoses to keep hot water as opposed to constantly boiling the kettle and considering using renewable energy sources such as solar from the sun. Energy conservation is important because the more energy we use, the more of a strain we put on the planet’s resources. This is because most of the planet’s energy sources aren’t renewable, we have to burn fossils to create energy. The more energy used, the more fossils are burnt. This causes air and water pollution as well as global warming.
5. Conserve water
There is only so much water on the planet and we cannot make more. As much as most of the damage being caused to the water cycle comes from industries that toxify water, we can still do our part in being considerate of the earth’s limited resources. Take shorter showers, turn off taps when not in use and be cautious of the cleaning products that you use. All the water we use and flush or pour down a drain will be used over and over again, be mindful of that.
6. Responsible consumption
Sustainable Development Goal number 12 is responsible consumption and production. We decided to focus on the aspect of consumption because we all consume products of all kinds. Practicing responsible consumption means taking into account the environmental impact of the purchases that you make. Consume what you purchased and try your best to avoid waste. For example, if you buy food make sure to eat it or if you buy clothes, don’t buy something that will tear easily then throw it away.
7. Volunteer
There are lots of organizations and movements trying to better the planet and fight environmental degradation. Look for them when you can and devote some time. You can collect litter, plant trees or anything of the sort. There are also competitions like essay writing where you can pitch viable solutions to this issue and get your ideas implemented. The best volunteering you can do is to live everyday wanting to make the earth better for the generations to come.
Remember that the fight against environmental degradation is one you fight individually through your everyday choices and consciousness. Make earth day, every day.
