By Gabrielle Smith
Now more than ever the world’s climate change crisis is at an all time high. One of the most notable changes that people here in the Southwest have been experiencing is the arrival of species such as moose, which has been spotted in northern New Mexico mountains while the lesser goldfinch has been noticed as far down south as Albuquerque.
Since the climate change has made its way to a critical point of almost no return you may be asking yourself “what can I do to reduce my imprint on the world?”
1. Cut out the use of single-use plastic!
It is understandable that because of the pandemic there is a need more than ever to revert to comfort food which then leads to order take-out. That is completely normal! However, you can simply request that single-use plastic not be included in your order. This means no plastic silverware and no plastic straws. Plastic waste is destroying the oceans as there is more than eight billion tons of plastic waste in the ocean today. Eliminating the single use plastic will help reduce the pollution in the ocean and in return save a number of species while you’re at it.
Another great way to eliminate single use plastic is to utilize reusable bags when out shopping. Most places even sell them for less than a dollar, which means fewer plastic bags drifting through the air.
2. Start Composting
Why throw away all the leftover or forgotten veggies and fruits that have gone bad when it can be turned into compost for your beautiful garden. This effort can help reduce and reuse waste which will help to produce less pollution.
3. Shop Locally
It is completely understandable at how difficult this one may be to achieve. If doable, this will not only help out your neighbors, but also help minimize the pollution. Think about it, most box stores ship in their products from all over the country and even from places around the world. This causes emission fuels to seep into the air which then causes pollution. Find out where the local farmers market is and try shopping there instead.
4. Turn off the Lights
Turn off the lights that are not being used. When leaving a room make sure to turn off the lights behind you. This will reduce the electric intake and ultimately save some money.
5. Simply Recycle More
Make sure to check with city’s guidelines of what can and cannot be recycled as well as when your recycled goods will be picked up. Recycling is extremely beneficial as it helps to reduce the waste that goes to landfills and it also helps with conversing raw materials which in return precents the pollution that it takes to make new materials.
