The earth’s demand for fresh water will outstrip supply by 40% in 2030. This warning comes from The Global Commission on the Economics of Water as we continue to consume water without caution. The World Meteorological Organization also reported in November 2022 that “climate-related shortages in water resources could affect two thirds of the world’s population by midcentury. Complicating these frightening predictions is the fact that extreme rainfalls and flooding are among the consequences of global warming that will likely make our planet 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 Fahrenheit) hotter by 2030. We may be able to adapt to these extreme changes, but managing them will be another issue altogether.
Apple, one of the biggest phone makers in the world, recently added a clean energy charging switch in the battery settings. Your phone can to get maximum charge when the home you inhabit is supplied with green energy (solar, wind or nuclear), Your phone will charge slowly in a home run with coal or gas plants and your phone will charge fast when your home power is supplied by solar wind or nuclear power, According to Apple there are 150 million active iPhone users in US alone and about 22 % of the Apples carbon footprint comes from iPhone charging. This is an incredible solution to the problem and would reduce carbon dioxide emissions if implemented throughout the world over a period of time.
Currently 100 billion plastic bags pass through the hands of U.S. consumers every year—almost one bag per person each day. Laid end-to-end, they could circle the earth 1,330 times. Pause, think, plan ahead and save your money and the environment. With 10 Million tons of plastic bags ending up in oceans every year, by 2050, the world’s oceans could contain more plastic than fish measured by weight, and our oceans would be a plastic soup.
In an era where climate change and environmental degradation pose significant threats to our planet, it is crucial for us individuals to take responsibility and contribute to saving the environment. While government policies and large-scale industry initiatives play a vital role, the power to make a difference lies within each individual. It is evident that individual behavior in daily lives helps protect and preserve the environment for future generations would be the most powerful tool.
Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.
https://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/national-overview-facts-and-figures-materials
In the US alone 260 million tons of the waste is generated every year, of which about 150 million ÛÙi I goes to landfills. How much is dumped is as important as what is dumped. While the reduction in paper and yard trimmings being dumped has largely been to recycling up to 65% as on 2018 levels, the plastics use has continuously increased and the current recycling levels are a mere 9 %.
As the math would suggest, one of the simplest and most effective ways to contribute to environmental preservation is to adopt the mantra of “reduce, reuse, and recycle.” Reducing consumption by buying only what is necessary helps conserve resources and minimize waste. Reusing items such as shopping bags, water bottles, and containers reduces the demand for new products. Recycling, when done correctly, saves energy and reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills. There is a five cent deposit on carbonated soft drink, beer, malt beverage, and sparkling water containers sold in Massachusetts. Carefully read your receipt and save the cans and bottles so that next time when you buy stuff you can trade them for money and a happy feeling of your contribution to saving the earth. Making conscious decisions while shopping can make a significant difference. Prioritize products with minimal packaging, opt for eco-friendly alternatives, and support companies that prioritize sustainable practices. Investing in durable, long-lasting goods reduces waste and promotes a circular economy
Conserve Water
Water is a precious resource, and conserving it is vital for a sustainable future. Individuals can take simple steps like turning off the tap while brushing teeth, fixing leaky faucets, and installing water-efficient appliances. Collect rainwater for gardening and use water-saving shower heads and toilets. Carrying and using your own refillable water bottle is also an effective measure. Water is also energy. Every year, 39.2 billion kWh of energy is used to treat and distribute drinking water and 30.2 billion kWh is used to treat wastewater.
Energy Efficiency
According to NREL total electricity savings from residential buildings could be as high as 245 Million MWhr, the total domestic electricity consumption in the US was 1420 Million MWhr in 2022. A reduction of about 19-20 % can be achieved through domestic energy efficiency measures. The data takes into account that the energy saving measures are above zero Net Present Value (Meaning that even if the new energy saving equipment used will cost more in the present it would be saving you money in the long run). Reducing energy consumption not only saves money but also helps the environment. Using energy-efficient appliances and LED light bulbs, properly insulating homes, and adjusting thermostats can significantly lower energy usage. Unplugging electronics when not in use and utilizing natural light whenever possible are additional ways to conserve energy. In Boston, Ever source runs various programs for saving energy bills, for example whether you own or rent, you can keep your home comfortable while saving energy and money with a no-cost Home Energy Assessment which the company provides to its customers, which can uncover energy-saving solutions crafted specifically for your home, including: money-saving rebates, expert home improvement advice, and energy-saving tips.
Sustainable Transportation
Transportation accounts for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions. Opting for public transportation, carpooling, biking, or walking instead of driving alone can reduce carbon footprint. If owning a car is necessary, choosing fuel-efficient or electric vehicles is a greener option. For example, researchers from UC Berkeley reported that individual carpoolers may reduce GHG emissions by approximately 4% to 5% (Shaheen et al., 2018). Another research’s finding also stated that employees carpooling both on the way to work and home can potentially decrease 22%-28% CO2 emissions (Bruck et al., 2017). With ever increasing gas prices, pooling and public transportation can also save a great deal of money.
Adopting a Plant-Based Diet
The food we consume has a considerable environmental impact. Animal agriculture contributes to deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and water pollution. Reducing meat consumption and transitioning to a plant-based diet can help alleviate these issues. By choosing locally sourced, organic, and seasonal produce, individuals can further minimize their ecological footprint and live healthy. If everyone shifted to a plant-based diet we would reduce global land use for agriculture by 75%. This large reduction of agricultural land use would be possible thanks to a reduction in land used for grazing and a smaller need for land to grow crops. Only 48% of the world’s cereals are eaten by humans. 41% is used for animal feed, and 11% for biofuels. This is why eating less meat would mean eliminating large losses of calories and thereby reducing the amount of farmland we need. This would free up billions of hectares for natural vegetation, forests and ecosystems to return.
Educate and Advocate
Spreading awareness about environmental issues is crucial. Engage in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues to share knowledge and encourage sustainable practices. The scientific models that predict weather changes and catastrophes can predict with accuracy the dooms day ahead if nothing changes, but they can’t include the human spirit, the biggest factor of collective change which would be the cornerstone of our sustainable future. While the challenges of saving the environment may seem overwhelming, every small action at the individual level can contribute to a more sustainable future. By embracing practices such as reducing waste, conserving water and energy, adopting sustainable transportation and dietary choices, and making conscious consumer decisions, individuals can make a tangible impact. Remember, it is our collective responsibility to safeguard the environment, and by taking action today, we can ensure a healthier and more sustainable planet for our generations to come.
