Sustainable life: Fastest way to a happy planet
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Time is of the essence. Our planet’s climate, biodiversity, and natural resources are in desperate need of regeneration. We can all make a difference through the choices we make each day.
Here are the most impactful places to start. These are eight fast, simple ways for us to play our part in creating a happy planet.
Fly less
There’s no way to sugar-coat the impact of flights on carbon emissions, especially long-haul flights. Flying from London to New York and back is about 2 tonnes of emissions. That’s almost on fifth the average emissions per individual who lives in Australia. Fly only when necessary. Consider holidays that are closer to home. Swap flights for video conference calls at work.
Buy things that you really need
Shiny new things are just so alluring! The latest computer, phone or Fitbit are fun. There are gadgets for your kitchen, laundry, shed and more. Then, there’s fashion. New colours mean new tops, pants and matching shoes. Choose wisely. New things become old quickly. Many objects spend less time in our home than they spent getting manufactured and shipped for your buying pleasure. Try extending the life of things you already own, buying second hand or swapping on your local buy nothing group. Take a buy nothing new challenge.
Choose ethical superannuation
Superannuation funds are the single largest asset pool in the global market. Let your money express your values. Choose an ethical retirement pension provider that expresses your values of climate solutions and sustainable development. The good news is that you don’t need to compromise your savings, most ethical pension funds perform slightly better than the average fund.
Eat less meat
Food production is responsible for a quarter of total greenhouse gas emissions worldwide, with meat, in particular beef cattle and sheep, the largest contributors. Beef and sheep produce methane when they fart, they’re also responsible for deforestation to create agricultural land. Fall in love with tasty Indonesian Gado Gado, Middle Eastern Falafel burgers and Mexican bean tacos. Start with meat free Mondays and gently increase the number of meat free meals each week.
Recycle… everything
Before you put an item in the bin to go to landfill, ask yourself… can this be recycled? If you’re not sure, check out the advice on the ACT Government’s recyclopedia. We have the technology to recycle, but many people lack the willpower to sort their recycling properly. By recycling, you’ll be creating a new life for the materials that have already been extracted and reducing the need for mining and pre-production.
Use the avoid, reuse and reduce compass to guide household decisions
Need something new? Think again. Can you live without it, or avoid the purchase. Do you already have a mountain bike or kitchen gadget that’s good enough. If you really do need something, can you reuse some or all of something that you already have. Can you reduce the number or size of the thing that you need. For example, do you really need a new home, or would an extension be sufficient? Do you need a new car, or would a trailer enable you to keep your existing car. Can you live with less, so the planet can have more?
Choose renewable electricity
Actually, if you live in Canberra, you’ve already got 100% renewable electricity. It’s supplied as part of the ACT Government’s net zero by 2045 commitment. If you’re keen to take it one step further, get your own local, renewable electricity by installing solar panels and a battery.
Grow some of your food
Connect to the climate and landscape near your home by growing some of your own food. Start with herbs or leafy greens in pots. Use the food that you grow. Extend your range as you get to know and enjoy being outside.
