2024 marked the highest recorded temperatures in history, with global surface temperatures exceeding the industrial average by 1.55°C, according to the World Meteorological Organization. Overall, the last decade was marked by increasingly high temperatures, evidence of the ongoing and worrying trend of global warming.
As the planet heats up, climate change is becoming an increasingly harsh reality. The ever-strengthening intensity of acute weather events and natural disasters have left almost no part of the world untouched. As we enter 2025, this should herald a moment of reflection about what each of us can do to help to save our planet.
See also: Top 10 world problems and their solutions
Here are some simple actions that can have a positive impact:
1. Reduce plastic use
Plastic production has skyrocketed in recent years, doubling in just the last two decades. While synthetic plastic has been around since 1907, its production did not really accelerate until the 1950s. Fast forward to 2023, and the world saw an annual production of 413.8 million metric tons. It is disturbing to think that around 2,000 truckloads of plastic waste are thrown into oceans, lakes, and rivers every day.
Plastic pollution affects every ecosystem, with 19-23 million tons of plastic leaking into aquatic environments annually. However, even small changes to reduce daily plastic use can lead to significant improvements.
2. Travel responsibly
Transportation is essential for everyday life but it contributes hugely to climate change. In 2023, transportation accounted for roughly 16% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with about 8.4 billion metric tons of CO₂ being released. Cars, planes, and ships powered by internal combustion engines are among the biggest polluters.
Choosing more sustainable options like buses, trains, or carpooling can significantly reduce everyone’s carbon footprint. Flying less often and exploring destinations closer to home would also cut emissions.
3. Minimise food waste
Over 30% of the food grown or produced globally ends up in the bin or is lost. In Europe alone, around 60 million tons of food end up as waste every year which represents a loss of 132 billion euros.
See also: How and why should individuals reduce their food waste | Experts’ Opinions
Reducing food waste starts at home. Use up leftovers, use ingredients creatively, and compost organic scraps. Small efforts lead to big changes.
4. Support local and seasonal products
Buying local helps to reduce the environmental cost of long-distance transportation. A locally grown tomato requires far less energy and leads to far fewer emissions compared to one imported from another continent. Seasonal produce is also more sustainable as it avoids the need for energy-intensive farming practices such as heated greenhouses. Go for fresh, local options when shopping to support both nature and the community.
5. Save energy at home
Heating buildings remains one of the largest challenges in reducing energy use. Fossil fuels currently meet 60% of global heating needs, and emissions from this sector continue to grow despite advances in renewable energy.
Switching to renewable energy providers can significantly reduce a building’s carbon footprint. Simple steps like turning off devices that are on standby, using energy-efficient LED bulbs, and improving home insulation can help to conserve energy and lower bills.
6. Protect local wildlife
Even in small spaces, you can contribute to biodiversity. Plant flowers like lavender or sunflowers to feed bees and butterflies. Consider adding birdhouses or small shelters for animals like hedgehogs to help to protect essential species that maintain healthy ecosystems.
7. Inspire others to act
Changes happen when people collaborate. Share your eco-friendly habits, whether it is discovering a great farmers’ market or using a clever zero-waste hack. If you know how to make reusable bags or natural cleaning products at home then teach others to follow suit or host a workshop because small conversations and group efforts can inspire others to act towards sustainability.
