Climate change - you've probably heard of it,but when it comes to caring for the environment everyone hesitates. We feel that it doesn't affect us now so we'll act when it does. That's far from being true. Climate change has already caused a 1.2 degree rise in the earth's temperature and has taken over 2 million lives in India in the year 2019 alone. If you're still not convinced that climate change is real, then go outside and look around - everyone is wearing a mask. This is an indirect implication of climate change. The rise in temperature has caused diseases to spread at unprecedented rates causing turmoil across the globe.
But, then again, it is not like you will die because of climate change, again, untrue. Our future depends on effective climate action. Here's what's at stake if we don't tackle climate change.
1.Rising sea levels could affect 1 billion people by 2050 if left unchecked.
2. Coral bleaching is the phenomenon that makes coral reefs susceptible to disease and death. Most of the oxygen that we breathe in comes from these coral reefs thus it is a very dire consequence of climate change that needs our immediate attention.
3. Heat waves are becoming more frequent. Heatwaves cause massive destruction and very often lead to forest fires. We saw an example of this in early 2020 when widespread forest fires in Australia killed 3 billion animals.
4. Climate change is causing wildlife habitats to disappear. These are huge ecosystems and support climate cycles. They are very important for maintaining a balance between animals and humans on earth.
We often think that how can one single person make a difference on this planet of 7.8 billion people. But when you come to think of it, you actually do have an impact. For example, you buy groceries weekly and every time you require two bags. If you have two cloth bags that last for 5 years rather than taking 2 plastic bags each time, that's 2 against 260!
Amazing isn't it? Capitalism and consumerism have made us less and less sustainable. Plastic is the past and we need to start thinking about the future that lies ahead.
Here are some 2021 resolutions to make you more sustainable and less non-biodegradable.
1.Stop using plastic bags and disposable cups and plates
2.Utilise organic food waste as compost in gardens /parks.
3. Cut down on electrical consumption by switching off unnecessary fans and lights.
4.Buy food and vegetables from local vendors and shops.
5.Cut down on packaged products and try to buy loose products in reusable bags/containers like glass jars and jute bags.
Steve jobs once said 'those who are crazy enough to believe that they can change the world are actually the ones that do'. We, at thenumber13initiative, try to live by this quote. You too can change the world if you believe in yourself. Stay tuned to thenumber13initiative for more climate change related content. Be crazy!
By- Angad Wadhwa
