What can I do to fight against climate change?

We get it, you've often heard phrases like "climate change affects us all" and "we have a shared duty" in combating global warming. Yes, these statements hold weight, but it's understandable if sometimes you feel your individual efforts pale in comparison to the vast emissions from big corporations or the endless production and disposal of plastic. It's natural to feel somewhat disheartened.

👉 But here's the good news: you can amplify your positive impact. Keep reading to learn how you can make an even bigger difference in the fight against climate change.

One consideration that often comes up when we talk about taking action to fight climate change is whose responsibility is it in the first place? Who should be the one to make changes, to foot the bill, etc? 

Time for a little history lesson: man-made climate change traces its roots to the dawn of the Industrial Revolution. This era, starting around the mid-18th century, not only sparked unprecedented technological advancement and economic growth but also initiated a substantial rise in carbon emissions. Certain countries, propelled by their burgeoning industries, stood out as significant contributors.

Historically, the United Kingdom is often pinpointed as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, and it was one of the earliest major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, alongside other European nations. As the 19th and 20th centuries progressed, countries like the United States, Germany, and France joined the ranks as major industrial powers and, consequently, significant emitters. By the 20th century, the U.S. had taken the lead, given its rapid industrialisation and vast coal, oil, and gas reserves.

Yet, it's a bitter irony that the Global South, while historically contributing the least in terms of emissions, often faces the harshest consequences of climate change. From devastating cyclones to crippling droughts, the effects are both severe and disproportionate. 

The saying "it's a team effort" rings true here, because the only way to reach net zero targets is if every country, every company, and every individual plays their part.

👉 To read more about the Industrial Revolution's role in climate change, why not check out our article on the topic.

Tools such as carbon markets, and regulations that require companies to transparently report their emissions, are gradually coming into effect, which is changing the sustainability landscape.

In the corporate world, it's undeniable that a select few companies are responsible for the majority of emissions. A shocking figure to note is that a mere 100 companies contribute to approximately 71% of global emissions. For these industrial giants, mitigating climate impact is not only an ecological imperative but also an ethical responsibility.

Thankfully, there's a discernible shift towards more concrete action in combating climate change. Governments are not only formulating impactful policies but also holding corporations accountable for their environmental impact. Meanwhile, businesses are beginning to see the various advantages of sustainable practices. Embracing sustainability is no longer just an ethical decision - it opens up new business avenues, mitigates operational risks, and enhances brand reputation in the eyes of increasingly eco-conscious consumers. 

But what about individuals? We’re more aware than ever before of the impacts of climate change and the actions that we can take at an individual level, yet how many of us have actually made meaningful changes to our lifestyles? And even if we do, does it actually make a difference in the grand scheme of things?

While a vast majority recognises collective responsibility in the battle against climate change, there's a rising trend of individuals sidelining their roles. Several factors are contributing to this detachment. 

For some, a lack of comprehensive education about climate change results in scepticism or even denial. However, for many, the relentless stream of disheartening news on global warming - from alarming media coverage of climate disasters to overwhelming scientific data - can lead to feelings of helplessness. Their individual efforts seem to pale in comparison to the vast scale of the problem. This feeling of insignificance intensifies when contrasted with the seeming inaction or shortcomings of governments and large corporations, leading many to doubt the relevance of their personal contributions in this overwhelming scenario.

While these are valid concerns, we’re here to assure you that you can have a meaningful impact on the fight against climate change - even as an individual. So read on to find out how you can boost your impact.

👉 To learn more about how hope is a powerful tool for change, head over to our article which explores the drawbacks of climate alarmism.

Individual action on climate change is not just a responsibility - it's a necessity. While systemic change requires cooperation on a grand scale, it's the daily choices of individuals that signal demand, set cultural norms, and pave the way for broader shifts. However, beyond these singular actions at home, there's a world of opportunity to magnify our impact and influence in the fight against global warming.

Let's delve into how we can expand that impact:

Influence on Others: Leading by Example

Living sustainably is as much about making individual eco-friendly choices as it is about fostering a community of like-minded individuals. Here's how the influence unfolds:

• Everyday examples - Every sustainable action, be it carrying a reusable water bottle or using a cloth bag instead of plastic, serves as a silent testament to our values. Such seemingly small acts can trigger conversations, spark curiosity, and inspire friends, family, and even strangers to reevaluate their habits. Think about how often a colleague might ask about that bamboo cutlery set you use at lunch, leading to them considering a similar purchase.
  
• Shared experiences - Engaging in eco-friendly activities with others amplifies the influence. Organising or participating in community clean-ups, tree planting events, or sustainable DIY workshops not only contributes to the environment but also fosters a communal spirit of eco-consciousness.
  
• Digital footprint - In the age of social media, our influence extends beyond our immediate circles. Sharing sustainable tips, eco-friendly product reviews, or even just eco-positive stories can have a widespread impact, prompting readers and viewers to reflect on their environmental choices.
  
• Educational conversations - Taking the time to inform and educate others about the importance of sustainability, the science behind climate change, or even the intricacies of recycling can be transformative. It's not about preaching; it's about engaging in constructive dialogues that encourage informed decision-making.

The adage that "actions speak louder than words" rings especially true when it comes to sustainability. Each individual's commitment to an eco-conscious lifestyle, showcased through daily habits and choices, acts as a beacon, subtly guiding and motivating others. It's a reminder that influence isn't just wielded by celebrities or thought leaders; every individual, through consistent and visible action, has the power to shape the perceptions and behaviours of their community.

Creation of Market Trends: The Consumer Revolution

Consumers wield an incredible amount of influence in the market. Every dollar spent is essentially a vote cast for a particular kind of product, service, or business practice. Over time, these aggregated choices give rise to prevailing market trends. Here's how:

• Demand for sustainable products -  As consumers increasingly seek out eco-friendly products, companies are taking note. Whether it's biodegradable packaging, cruelty-free cosmetics, or products made from recycled materials, businesses are evolving to meet these demands. Brands like Adidas, for instance, have launched entire product lines made from ocean plastics in response to growing consumer concern about marine pollution.
  
• Prioritising ethical production - The conscious consumer not only cares about the final product but also about how it's made. Fair-trade, cruelty-free, and ethically sourced are no longer niche concepts but key selling points. Companies like the clothing brand Everlane, with their commitment to "Radical Transparency," showcase their supply chains, offering consumers a clear view into where and how products are made.
  
• Supporting green innovation - Consumers are not just passive buyers; they’re also backers and supporters. Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo have seen numerous green innovations come to life, thanks to the backing of eco-conscious consumers. This collective financial support can help propel novel sustainable products into the mainstream market.
  
• Ditching unsustainable brands - Just as consumers can lift up sustainable brands, they can also voice their dissent against those lagging in eco-friendly practices. Boycotts, petitions, and social media campaigns can send strong messages to brands, signalling the need for change.
  
• Eco-Labels and certifications - The rising demand for green products has also led to a proliferation of eco-labels and certifications. These labels guide purchasing decisions by providing assurance about a product's environmental impact, further driving businesses to adhere to sustainable practices to earn these certifications.

Businesses are incredibly attuned to consumer demands. By making informed, sustainable choices, consumers can and do steer the course of industries, pushing them towards more sustainable horizons.

Your Role in Your Job: Greening the Professional Landscape

Every profession is a platform, an opportunity to enact positive change. Whether you're at the helm of a multi-million-dollar corporation or tending to crops in a field, your actions and decisions can shape the sustainability narrative and have a far-reaching impact. Here are some practical examples:

• All employees - Enhancing your company's environmental performance, no matter the sector, can start with a simple initiative: propose to management the establishment of a dedicated sustainability team or role. This group or individual can then champion eco-friendly measures, ensuring that sustainability actions are integrated seamlessly into everyday office operations.
  
• CEO/Manager - Leadership roles provide a unique vantage point. If you’re a CEO or a manager, your commitment to sustainable practices can be revolutionary. Whether it's investing in renewable energy, implementing waste-reducing measures, or fostering a company culture that values eco-consciousness, your actions set the tone. For instance, companies like Patagonia have made sustainability part of their core ethos, influencing their industry peers.
  
• Oil and Gas Professional - This industry is often spotlighted for its environmental footprint. However individuals within the sector can be changemakers. If you're working in oil and gas, you might advocate for investment in research and development of cleaner technologies, or promote energy conservation measures internally. Perhaps you can be the voice championing transition strategies, like Shell's push towards renewable energy sources alongside its traditional fossil fuel endeavours.
  
• Farmer - Agriculture is both a source and a solution when it comes to environmental challenges. If you're a farmer, consider sustainable farming methods like no-till farming, agroforestry, or organic agriculture. Embracing and promoting practices that enhance biodiversity, reduce water usage, or sequester carbon not only makes ecological sense but can also improve long-term farm productivity. Think of the regenerative farming movement, which is transforming agriculture by prioritising both crop yield and the health of the land.
  
• Educators - By integrating sustainability into lessons, you're equipping future generations with the tools and mindset to prioritise the environment. Perhaps it's a biology lesson centred on conservation or a mathematics module focused on calculating carbon footprints.
  
• Tech Professionals - In an increasingly digital age, technology offers solutions. Consider developing apps that encourage sustainable habits, or if you're into hardware, working on energy-efficient designs.

These are just a few examples, and every role is unique, but the underlying principle remains: each job offers avenues to advocate for, implement, or exemplify sustainability. The challenge is to identify these opportunities and act upon them, so ask yourself, “What can I do to make a difference?” 

👉 To learn more about the actions that you can easily implement at your company to reduce its carbon footprint, take a look at this article.

Companies, after years of environmental negligence, are beginning to shift. Motivated both by consumer demand and the palpable realities of our changing planet, they're exploring sustainable practices, innovating with green technologies, and even reimagining their core business models. Governments, though often slow to act, are increasingly recognising the urgency. Policy changes, green deals, and international environmental accords are beginning to pave the way for a more sustainable future.

However, it's easy, amidst the staggering statistics and the behemoth actions of corporations and countries, to feel dwarfed, to feel like our individual efforts have no chance of making a difference. But as we've seen, this couldn't be further from the truth. Our individual actions, especially when magnified through collective effort, wield substantial power. Whether it's setting sustainable market trends, influencing our communities, or leveraging our professional roles to advocate for eco-conscious practices, every effort counts.

At Greenly we can help you to assess your company’s carbon footprint, and then give you the tools you need to cut down on emissions. Why not request a free demo with one of our experts - no obligation or commitment required. 

If reading this article has inspired you to consider your company’s own carbon footprint, Greenly can help. Learn more about Greenly’s carbon management platform here.