Why climate change is everyone’s problem requiring us all to act.

While we know that burning of fossil fuels and consumption of meat are some of the primary causes of the changing climate, what we fail to recognize is twofold: that we all need to act, and that there are positive steps each and every one of us can take in our everyday lives to make a difference.

In just the past few decades, wildfire seasons have become months longer, coral reefs have been bleached devastating ecosystems, glaciers have been melting at unprecedented rates and rising temperatures have led to increasing and severe extreme weather events.

Despite ongoing false propaganda from the fossil fuel industry, its think tanks, pr firms, and supportive politicians, the world’s top climatologists are in agreement that anthropogenic, or human-caused, climate change is a global threat to life on the planet. While we know that burning of fossil fuels and consumption of meat are some of the primary causes of the changing climate, what we fail to recognize is twofold: that we all need to act, and that there are positive steps each and every one of us can do in our everyday lives to make a difference.

Here are just a few of the many ways we can make a difference:

1) Adopt a plant-based diet. This may sound more difficult than it really is, especially with a natural foods industry that has literally exploded during the past couple of decades. The transition to a vegetarian and vegan diet has never been easier. Meat and dairy specifically account for approximately 14.5% of global greenhouse gases according the UN’s Food and Agricultural Organization. Scientists are in agreement that some degree of shift in toward a plant based diet will be necessary to limit global warming to well below 2C, to avoid catastrophic and irreversible impacts. For more information on plant based diets and what to eat, recipes, etc., check back to the blog or get in touch.

2) Look for ways to make your commute greener. Whenever and wherever possible consider:

• Riding a bike

• Using a car-share

• Take public transit

• If possible, try to drive an highly energy efficient vehicle

• Fly less

3) Try to use energy wisely. Consider making some or all of these changes:

• Unplug computers, TVs and other electronics when you’re not using them

• Wash clothes in cold water and hang dry your clothes when possible

• Look for the Energy Star label when buying new appliances

• Winterize your home to prevent heat from escaping.

• Use energy efficient lightbulbs

• Install a programmable thermostat

4) Consider renewable energy. Look for ways to utilize renewable energy in your home and workplace.

5) Talk to people about the climate crisis. Don’t be afraid to engage in conversation about the state of the planet and all of our responsibilities to act. None of us are perfect, but we can all do better and try a little harder. Look to support those wanting to take steps toward a more sustainable lifestyle.

6) Consume less in general. Happiness in life comes from experiences, from relationships, from love, peace and a sense of security. These crucial factors are not acquired through purchasing consumer items but from focusing on life’s simple pleasures and connecting with one another and nature.

7) Invest in renewable energy and divest from fossil fuels. Encourage individuals, companies and organizations to place investments in sustainable sources, taking finances away from those who continue to pollute the planet.

8) Organize a community group. Change begins to be possible when we get together and make our voices stronger… When we organize with concrete goals and a sound strategy of achieving them. Start in your community – find others concerned and wanting to make a difference.

9) Support youth-led climate movements. Try to make the movement to address climate change an inclusive one where all are welcome as all of us are needed for this crisis to change.

10) Just do something. Act.