While politicians continue to argue over climate change policy, Bernard Marr* lists some simple actions anyone can take as the clock ticks towards global catastrophe.
As I am writing this article, the COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow has not been completed and I am unaware of the final outcome.
I check the Metronome clock in New York (pictured) which shows seven years, 84 days, 11 hours, 34 minutes and 11 seconds until the Earth experiences irreversible damage from global warming.
Whatever happens at the climate change conference, it is time for all of us to act now and there are things we can do.
Of course, the biggest steps in the fight against climate change need to happen at a Government level, but there are things all of us can do to reduce our impact and pull together to help fight climate change.
The good news is that taking action doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive.
Here are nine ways we can start to protect the environment today.
Travel responsibly
Transport is one of the most polluting sectors in the world.
Lower your environmental impact by walking or cycling instead of driving, choosing trains over planes, and vacationing closer to home.
I have pretty much stopped travelling anywhere for business (especially on planes) as working from home is easier than ever.
Vote and advocate
Vote for people who represent your values and make the environment a top priority.
Hold your local and national politicians accountable by making phone calls or writing letters.
Attend constituency meetings and speak out about key issues on social media.
Keep informed
Staying on top of the latest news about the state of our natural world gives you the information you need to have important conversations with your friends and family.
Eat less meat
As a family, we now eat vegetarian and vegan food more often than we eat meat.
Even for the carnivore in us, these days there are veggie burgers or other protein alternatives nearly everywhere.
They are closer to the taste and texture of meat than ever, some are even better.
Watch your wallet
Check out the brands you buy from, and find out how their products are sourced.
If you want them to make changes, email them or use social media to get them to understand exactly what you’re asking them to do.
Sign up for a green pricing program with your electricity utility
Some utility companies allow homes and businesses to choose power from clean sources.
Check with your local energy provider to see if this is an option for your home or office.
Reduce your home’s emissions
Install a smart thermostat, buy efficient appliances, consider a heat pump and ensure good insulation.
Move to a green bank
Choose a bank that reflects your values and invests in the types of things you agree with.
Opt-out of funds that invest in fossil fuels and socially irresponsible companies.
Cut consumption and waste
Use fewer single-use plastics, and buy less ‘fast fashion’.
Shop for second-hand items when possible, try to avoid food waste, and repair household items instead of replacing them.
One very simple thing we have done in our family is to cut shower gels and shampoos that come in plastic bottles — we use soap and shampoo bars instead.
What other tips would you add to this list?
*Bernard Marr is a bestselling business author and the founder of Bernard Marr & Co. He can be contacted at www.bernardmarr.com.
This article first appeared on LinkedIn.
