The theory of global warming has been around since the 1800's, and evidence was documented in the following century that the earth was indeed warming. In the beginning, no one really took it seriously with some scientists suggesting that ' it was probably benign' and ' the situation might improve for future generations'. It wasn't until the late 1980's that the world started to pay attention, with science showing documentation and evidence of this overwhelming fact. In the case of climate change, unfortunately science does not seem to be enough. We have arrived at the place that we are now, where many parts of the world are experiencing major natural disasters.
In Australia, we experienced devastating bush fires in 2019 and now in 2022, floods that have wiped out entire regions turning them into what looks like a war zone. We are now seeing the impact of climate change on ourselves, our loved ones, and those all over the world.
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC), humans emissions and activities have caused around 100% of the warming observed since 1950. Humans have caused this to happen at rapid pace, but this means that we have the power to make impactful change if we come together as a collective.
It's too easy to get stuck in freeze mode from fear and suppress the reality of it all because it's overwhelming and seems like a problem that is too big to fix. The thing is, you and me, we have the power to create change and influence those around us to do the same.
Nothing is too small, everything counts
What are some changes you can make?
1. Have the climate conversation
Normalise it, allow it to influence your choices and become an overarching foundation of everything you do.
2. Hold onto your things!
Use what you have till it's unusable. e.g. clothes, pots/pans, furniture, household things. It's important to appreciate all that we consume, be grateful for what we have and limit what we contribute to 'waste'. If you're feeling uninspired with an item that you hold, consider gifting to a friend, donating to op shops or getting creative to repurpose it into something 'new' e.g. place plants in pots and use clothing material to make a new garment.
3. Become a conscious consumer and consume less!
Purchase local where you can! with food, clothes, furniture - everything. It not only supports the community and small business, it reduces transport and energy usage to get your purchase to you. This means a reduction in carbon footprint!
Whenever you're about to buy something new, ask yourself the honest questions.
Do I need this?, how was it made/produced?, are there alternatives that will make me just as satisfied?
4. Staying grounded in a media driven society
We live in a society that tells us how we should look, what we need and who we should be, primarily through media. This constantly leaves us empty and wanting more, and does not fulfil our true desires and needs. Be mindful of brands and companies that greenwash and jump onto the the 'trend' of sustainability. A product is still a product, that takes precious energy to make and ends up in waste. Be mindful of the integrity and authenticity of companies and brands. Simply knowing and understanding this can be enough to determine choices.
5. Reassess your contribution
This is a big one and may take a moment to digest. Ask yourself these questions:
What is my purpose?
Does my job align with my values on the climate crisis?
Can I make actionable change for the betterment of the climate in my work/family environment?
If not, is it possible to pivot to a more sustainable path?
What steps do I need to take to make this achievable?
Would I feel fulfilled if I made this change?
These are big questions and we understand that change can sometimes be tricky financially, but we urge you to bring awareness to this area of your life and consider the options. When you're in a situation where values don't align, there will always be a better path out there to take that will enrich your life in a more meaningful way.
Climate crisis anxiety is certainly a thing! but don't allow fear and anxiety to prevent action. Simple choices can make a big impact! If you're feeling the weight of it all, you can click HERE to read about how to manage climate crisis anxiety.
We are in this together!
Love,
Hunna & Kat