The effects of climate change are indeed disturbing. Perhaps, what's most disturbing about it all is that many of us feel that we have little to no control over what's happening around us. However, there are things we can do to help the environment and curb our anxiety somewhat until we see positive change coming about. So, while it may seem that all hope is lost, Eco Bunny has some tips on how to cope and do our bit regarding the concerning events happening worldwide.
Coping with Anxious Thoughts and Feelings
While it is natural to feel overwhelmed at times when viewing disturbing climatic disasters happening everywhere, it is vital not to dwell on these negative issues. Rather, it's better to seek out ways to come to terms with what's happening and figure out how to live optimistically through it all. One of the steps to overcoming eco-anxiety is coming to a place of acceptance regarding the current state of affairs before one can attempt to move forward. Other coping mechanisms one can use to move forward include taking breaks from watching the news, believing that there is still a silver lining despite it all.
Ways to Battle Climate Change
As far as battling climate change goes, there are small steps we can all take to establish a positive change in our households and our communities too. Such changes could include:
Reduce Vehicle Usage
Whether it's opting for public transportation, joining the carpool, or walking or riding a bike to work, it's small steps like these that can reduce our carbon footprints dramatically.
Implement Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Principles
These three principles could not be more relevant than they are today when it comes to negating the effects of climate change. For instance, it is simple to stay up to date with your recycling efforts once you get into the habit of doing this consistently. Reducing meat consumption and opting for more veggies instead is another way to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as is 'reusing' clothing from thrift stores rather than buying them new.
Reduce Your Paper Usage
In this digital world, it is generally unnecessary to print out documents. Yet some people still insist on printing and filing their documents. If that practice applies to you, consider switching to paperless and recycling anything that comes through the mail.
Use Water and Energy Sparingly
Again, this includes incorporating eco-friendly features within your home to reduce energy and water usage such as using JoJo tanks, solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, etc. to reduce the hazardous effects of global warming.
Make Sure Your Business is Eco-Friendly
If you own a business or are thinking of starting one, there's no better time than the present to ensure it's eco-friendly. This may mean changing the packaging materials you use to recyclable ones, going paperless, following the three Rs, composting as well as making the necessary upgrades to ensure your energy and water consumption is as efficient as can be.
Discovering your niche as an eco-friendly business can be a rewarding journey that combines a passion for sustainability with the power to create real change in the world. By harnessing your unique eco-friendly ideas and carefully analyzing market trends, you'll carve out a distinct space in the growing green market. As more consumers seek out sustainable choices, your innovative business will inspire others to follow suit, fostering a greener future for everyone.
Sustainability in the Workplace
You can also promote sustainability practices in your workplace. Add some indoor plants to reduce air pollution. Stock the office with reusable pens, purchase remanufactured ink cartridges, and use green cleaning products. You can also encourage employees to work from home a couple times a month and to bike or carpool to work. You can also cut back on paper by using an online invoice generator and sending invoices digitally whenever possible.
Environmentally Friendly Home
Because we all spend so much time at home, taking steps to improve the home environment can be highly beneficial. Cleanliness is a good place to start. Instead of using store-bought cleaning products with harsh chemicals, try making your own DIY cleaners. You can accomplish a surprising amount of cleaning using things as simple as white vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda.
Another way to keep your kitchen clean is ensure that less particulate matter from cooking ends up spread around. Installing a range hood above your cook surface can be a big help. Its fans will pull particles from the air, making sure that they don’t settle around the kitchen for you to have to clean later.
Move to a Greener Neighborhood
Moving to a greener neighborhood can be a wonderful choice for those looking to improve their quality of life, reduce their carbon footprint, and enjoy a healthier living environment. Neighborhoods with high walk scores are often designed with pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, encouraging residents to walk to nearby amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and parks, rather than driving. This reduced reliance on vehicles contributes to decreased traffic congestion and air pollution, leading to cleaner air and less smog. Additionally, green neighborhoods may offer other environmentally-friendly features such as community gardens, sustainable landscaping, and efficient waste management.
Before making the move, it is important to conduct thorough research to ensure that the neighborhood aligns with your lifestyle and values. Reviewing local walk scores, public transportation options, green spaces, and community initiatives can provide valuable insights into the neighborhood's eco-friendly attributes.
Start Making Changes for Good
Overcoming anxiety regarding climate changes doesn't mean that things will magically come right overnight. But it does mean we'll be able to cope better and face circumstances with a better outlook than before. Try some strategies, such as starting a green business, keeping your home clean and green, and living in eco-friendly housing, that will help the planet and your anxiety. Start being the change that our world needs!
Eco Bunny offers a number of great products designed to help use reduce our reliance on disposable items. Start shopping our store today to make a change.
Joe Rees