Environmental sustainability – do we really need it?

The Earth is wise and generous – it has provided us will all possible natural resources to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life. Also, it’s quite communicative – it shows us each time we cross the boundaries and reminds us to rethink the actions that hurt our existence. And yet, are we active doers, good observers or just ignorant students in this perfect ecosystem?!

Environmental sustainability, a much-discussed topic nowadays, is actually not that new. Its concept was first mentioned in a 1987 report which defines sustainable development as the action “that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Logically, if we pay attention to our everyday behavior, we will fully participate in reaching UN’s sustainable development goals like clean water and sanitation, good health and well-being, responsible consumption and production, which should be available to each human on the planet by 2030.

Our involvement in nature’s preservation is of utmost importance now more than ever. The figures of the impact caused by mankind speak for themselves:

· WWF states that since 1970, the global population of mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles and fish have suffered an average decline of two-thirds.

· Since 1950 to date, almost 90% of the fish in the oceans have completed their evolutionary transition.

· By 2048 there will be no fish in freshwater pools, and the bacteria living there will turn the environment into an acidic one, which will be extremely toxic to the people.

It sounds devastating, doesn’t it? It seems like people have forgotten that the Earth and all the species that inhabit it, form an interactive, living organism; that every creature is a temporary guest on this planet, and as such, it is responsible to live conscientiously. Instead of threatening our own survival, we are presented with the unique chance to turn the whole situation around and live in harmony with nature – just the way we were initially intended to. This simply means that small efforts made by a collective society will lead to more positive results than huge efforts made by a handful of people.

We really do have the power to reduce the footprint of bad practices like deforestation, unsustainable agriculture, illegal wildlife trade, water and air pollution, natural resource depletion, climate change and others. How can you be part of the eco revolution? There are too many ways, really! Below are just a few tips for everyday use:

· Make sure your waste goes to the right place.

· Recycle. As much as you can.

· Use reusable bags when (grocery) shopping.

· Bring your own reusable cup.

· Invest in a reusable water bottle.

· Choose loose leaf tea over tea bags. They are usually made with plastic.

· Refuse single-use items, such as straws, disposable cutlery, etc. Buy reusable ones and bring them with you.

· Carry your own containers for leftovers.

· Buy your food locally. The shorter the food chain, the less waste created.

· Support farmers committed to sustainable agriculture.

· Reduce food waste at home.

· Compost. Especially if you have a garden.

· Ride a bike, commute or walk more. Drive less or carpool.

· Use eco-friendly personal cosmetics and home cleaning detergents.

· Switch to reusable cotton rounds instead of disposables.

· Try a bamboo toothbrush.

· Use reusable dishcloths instead of paper towels.

· Restore old furniture or buy vintage one.

· Plant a tree.

· Opt for green energy suppliers (if possible), etc.

The list is endless. It’s all about creativity and willingness to put it into practice.

It’s time to remind ourselves that we, humans, are the most evolved species on the planet and we need to act as such. Even though we are quite a small fraction of Earth’s inhabitants, it’s our obligation to take full responsibility of our actions so far and reverse the consequences the best we can.

Here at Hoorays!, we are truly passionate about getting our environment cleaner and our planet healthier. We celebrate Earth Day every day! We are constantly looking for like-minded people to get involved in our mission and support our efforts working toward a greener home. If we manage to encourage others, it’s even better! After all, the more people practice environmental sustainability, the better chance we stand to reduce the ecological impact and survive as species. It’s a matter of choice. And action.