Blazing wildfires, the Covid19 pandemic, extreme floods and oceans polluted with plastic, leading to countless animals suffering and dying. The biodiversity of this planet is deteriorating as well, at rates unprecedented in human history.
Have humans become so self-obsessed as not to hear the outcries of our planet’s suffering and struggles?
It’s a bleak picture that is being painted. One we must face, however. It’s not as abstract anymore as caring for future generations, it’s our very own survivals that is at stake.
The power of the individual
As individuals, we tend to think that there is little we can do. We like to put the responsibilities onto the agenda of governments and big cooperations. Without a doubt, change needs to be happening from their sides as well. Though we mustn’t forget that every organisation, every party, every institution and committee is comprised of many individuals, like you and me.
Let’s not underestimate the power of a single person! It’s like a row of dominoes, it only takes one stone to fall for causing a chain reaction. We all can be that first stone!
Around two-thirds of global emissions are linked to private households. The richest 1% of the global population account for more emissions than the poorest 50%.
Biodiversity – what does it do?
Despite ongoing efforts, biodiversity is deteriorating. It is estimated that around one million animal and plant species are now threatened with extinction.
Each species, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, has an important role to play. For example, a larger number of plant species means a greater variety of crops. That in turn means that we have more options for getting the nutrients that we need. Healthy ecosystems also prevent natural catastrophes and help us to better recover from them. They contribute to climate stability. It’s also aiding the protection of our water resources. Find out more about water and how necessary for our survival it is here.
No easy way out
As an Earth citizen that is enjoying all the privileges and indulging in them, we also have responsibilities. One of them is to look after the planet and our excuses to neglect this duty are not good enough! It’s not ‘ours’ to possess and destroy as we please, it’s a complex ecosystem that is not only shared with 7,9 billion fellow humans but also with an estimated 8,7 million different species of animals and plants.
It’s simple things that already make a difference. It should go without saying that trash needs to be separated, something every one of us can do with little effort. This ensures that recyclable materials are reused when making new products, reducing waste put into landfills, preventing the pollution of our soil, water and air.
Conscious consumerism
A plea to all the ladies! Many women use tampons and sanitary pads monthly. All of these products are not only packed in plastic but are also comprised 90% of the very same material. All of this generates more than 200 000 tons of non-recyclable waste every year! Ladies, it’s in your hands to avoid this! These days many sustainable alternatives are available, from biodegradable tampons to menstruation cups. By using natural products we are respecting our femininity as well as aiding Mother Earth.
As a Chinese proverb tells us: Unless we change direction, we are likely to end up where we are headed. Currently, the course of Humanity is heading towards Destruction.
Certainly, the situation is grave but a change is possible! All the colours of the palette are for us to use. Painting our life pictures by picking up a different brush dipped in brighter hues our planet will change and a FAB world most definitely will emerge!
