10 Actions you can take for Climate Health
The team at Carbon Positive Australia has put together ten actionable steps that you can take now that will have a significant impact on the Earth.
We face the multiple challenges of a changing climate – the warming of which the latest IPCC report states has been unequivocally accelerated by human activity. These times require nimbleness, intelligence, care and urgent, yet well thought out, action. The team at Carbon Positive Australia has put together ten actionable steps that you can take now that will have a significant impact on the Earth!
- Buy less – reduce, reuse, repair and recycle. The item with the lowest carbon footprint is the one you already have. Personal and household items such as clothing, furniture, appliances and toiletries often come with a high environmental price tag. Before you make a purchase, consider whether you could borrow from a family member, friend or neighbour. If not, could you find it second-hand? Try to buy local whenever possible to reduce emissions from transport.
- Calculate your carbon footprint and act to reduce your personal impact. Our carbon footprint calculator is a free step-by-step tool that empowers you to reduce your footprint and take action on climate change.
- Switch to banks and super funds that do not invest in fossil fuels. Changing where your money lives is one of the most impactful actions you can take in the fight against climate change. There are lots of online resources available comparing financial institutions. Do some research and find one that aligns with your personal values. It’s easier than you think!
- Support businesses with ambitious climate and environmental policies. Look for explicit targets, and actions that have already been implemented.
- Companies committed to the Science Based Targets
- Certified B Corps
- 1% for the Planet
- Certified Climate Active organisations
- Review the climate policies of all parties before you vote. You can learn more on the Climate Council website or via the party websites.
- Support forest protectors. There are lots of individuals and organisations doing amazing work to protect our forests including local forest alliances such as WAFA and Lawyers for Forests. Find out how you can get involved and share their message.
- Plant native trees and shrubs in your garden. Native gardens are not only beautiful, but are a great way to save water (and money!). They also provide a home for native fauna and remove more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than lawn or paving! Visit your local nursery for tips on which species are best for your area and when to plant them.
- Buy local, seasonal produce whenever possible to reduce emissions from transport and cold storage. Check out your local farmers market and try incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet.
- Give to organisations working on positive climate and ecological outcomes. Support isn’t always in the form of a donation. You can gift your time and skills by volunteering, or help share their messages with your networks – what you can offer is only limited by your imagination!
- Choose public transport wherever possible. There’s no better feeling than looking out the window of the train as you whizz past bumper-to-bumper traffic! Take the opportunity to read a book, listen to music, or get some life admin done during your journey.
