In the midst of the continuing climate emergency, the COVID-19 lockdown has offered several signs that our environment may be on the road to recovery.
With many of us staying at home, the number of cars on the roads has decreased and planes have remained grounded. A study published in Nature Climate Change revealed that daily carbon dioxide emissions had fallen by 17 percent by early April compared to 2019 figures. As lockdown is starting to ease across the globe there are fears that a new economy will fail to put conservation and the environment at the forefront.
It is up to us to help the environment recover as these uncertain times continue. Here are five ways you can live a more sustainable lifestyle post-lockdown.
Cycle to work
With governments advising us to avoid public transport where possible, many of us may be automatically inclined to drive our cars to work.
Experts fear that the surge of people returning to their cars will have a significant impact on CO2 emissions. Resist the urge to drive to work and consider cycling or even walking, depending on the distance of your commute.
Not only will this help to reduce emissions, but it will have multiple benefits for your health.
Switch to sustainable clothing brands
With the closure of many different stores, most of us have turned to online retailers to get our shopping fix.
Unfortunately, many of these have a negative impact on the environment. To help reduce this impact, switch over to sustainable clothing brands. There are several to choose from as the number of brands committed to sustainability continues to increase.
If you have spent your time in lockdown mastering a home workout routine, why not switch to a sustainable activewear brand. Examples of which include Pact, Organic Basics, and more.
Go plastic-free
Around 18 billion pounds of plastic waste ends up in the oceans every year.
With excess levels of household waste piling up during lockdown, one way to live more sustainably is to switch to zero-waste products. The zero-waste market has expanded considerably over the past few years and now offers plenty of household favourites. You can search for your local zero-waste store online.
As lockdown is eased and we start to return to work, adopt a zero-waste on the go attitude. This can be achieved by purchasing products such as a reusable coffee cup, bamboo cutlery, and a reusable straw.
Eat more plants
Adopting a vegan diet or even just reducing your meat intake can be beneficial for the environment.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has said that “animal agriculture is responsible for 18 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, more than the combined exhaust from all transportation.”
This is only part of the problem, as the industry consumes huge amounts of water each year. In the United States alone, the U.S. Geological Service has said that “animal agriculture water consumption ranges from 34-76 trillion gallons annually.”
Cutting down on meat consumption can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and take a stand against the cruelty of the industry.
Have a staycation
Lockdown has resulted in a reduction in the number of flights globally. A report from travel data provider OAG has shown that scheduled flights are down 65 percent compared to the same week last year.
As countries across the globe begin to open up their borders it is tempting to book a flight and go looking for that lockdown escape. There are fears that this will lead to a boom in air travel and consequently CO2 emissions.
Instead, try avoiding the urge and have a ‘staycation’. This could be something as simple as visiting your local nature areas, hiking trails, or even transforming your garden into your own personal campsite.
