Think Your Actions Don’t Have An Impact? You’re Wrong.

It’s time to dispel the notion that the efforts of one person are inconsequential.

Climate change stands as an imposing challenge, casting its shadow over ecosystems, reshaping weather patterns, and jeopardizing the holistic well-being of our planet. Amid the vastness of this predicament, the belief that individual actions amount to mere drops in an ocean of global issues persists. 

Society has led individuals to make consumer decisions dictated by convenience and fast-revolving trends, resulting in a polluted and cluttered planet. Yet, in this cycle of unintended consequences, there lies a transformative potential. 

What if, for a moment, we paused to contemplate our impact on the planet? By making thoughtful choices and embracing joyful changes, we have the power to not only diminish our negative imprint but also amplify our positive influence. In the tapestry of our actions, a mindful thread can weave a narrative of sustainable and impactful change.  

One Planet Life’s goal is to dismantle the myth that individual contributions are negligible, unveiling a roadmap of tangible steps—each laden with potential to reshape our environmental trajectory. From minimizing carbon footprints to advocating for systemic change, the tools for meaningful impact are within reach, waiting to be wielded by individuals eager to forge a more sustainable and resilient future.

One Planet Life App

By downloading the One Planet Life app, we help you take the guesswork out of tracking just how much of an impact your lifestyle changes can make. You can set goals for reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and celebrate your daily progress. With the Life Center Sustainable Living Dashboard, you can easily see just how much of an impact your Joyful Changes are making and the pounds of CO2 emissions you are saving through each action. App users can also earn Planet Points and stay motivated by seeing just how much of a difference their active changes make as they add up throughout the year. 

Practice the Three Rs

Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Minimize waste by opting for products with minimal packaging, reusing items, and recycling materials like paper, glass, and plastic.

In the most recent figures available by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), only about 32% of the total 292.4 million tons of municipal solid waste generated in the U.S. was recycled in 2018.

Ditch the Plastic

Single-use plastics have infiltrated every part of our lives. The world now produces more than 380 million metric tons of plastic every year. Considering that only about 5-6% of U.S. plastics are recycled, much of it ends up in quickly expanding landfills and polluting our natural green spaces and oceans. In fact, the average American throws away approximately 185 pounds of plastic a year. 

Luckily, there are easy ways you can help reverse this trend. Opt for a reusable water bottle instead of buying disposable single-use bottles. Next time you order lunch, bring along a reusable set of utensils to cut down on single-use items. Flimsy plastics, like shopping bags, are notoriously difficult to recycle. Next time you take a trip to the grocery store, bring your own reusable tote along instead. 

Energy Efficiency at Home

Invest in energy-efficient technologies for your home, such as LED lighting, smart thermostats, and well-insulated windows. Conserving energy not only reduces your utility bills but also decreases the demand for fossil fuels. Energy-efficient lighting, like LEDs, can use up to 90% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

Also, unplugging appliances when you aren’t using them can drastically cut your overall energy consumption. In fact, 23% of electricity consumed in homes is wasted by standby power. 

Support Renewable Energy

If possible, consider investing in renewable energy sources like solar panels for your home. Supporting renewable energy initiatives and advocating for their implementation in your community can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

The International Energy Agency reported that global additions of renewable power capacity are expected to jump by a third in 2023, as growing policy momentum, higher fossil fuel prices, and energy security concerns drive strong deployment of solar PV and wind power.

Choose a Sustainable Diet

Adopting a plant-based diet or reducing meat consumption can significantly lower your carbon footprint. Livestock farming is a major contributor to methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. 

Transitioning to plant-based diets has the potential to reduce diet-related land use by 76% and diet-related greenhouse gas emissions by 49%, according to a 2022 study published by the National Institute of Health. 

Here’s how much carbon you could save by choosing vegetarian or vegan options over meat or fish, according to Exeter City Council:

• 1 vegetarian day per week (52 days a year) can save nearly 100kgs of CO2 per year.
• 1 vegetarian week per month (12 weeks a year) can save nearly 153kgs of CO2 per year.
• 1 vegan day per week (52 days a year) can save nearly 143kgs of CO2 per year.
• 1 vegan week per month (12 weeks a year) can save nearly 231kgs of CO2 per year.

Need help getting started? Visit the recipes section of our website for meal inspiration!

Conserve Water

Practice water conservation by fixing leaks, using water-saving appliances, and being mindful of water consumption. Consider installing low-flow faucets and toilets, and collect rainwater for outdoor use.

Water conservation is more important now than ever before. The World Wildlife Fund estimates that by 2025, two-thirds of the world’s population may face water shortages.

Mindful Consumption

Make informed choices when purchasing products. Support companies that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices, such as B Corporations. Consider the environmental impact of products, such as their production processes and packaging, before making a purchase.

The fashion industry alone is responsible for about 4% of global carbon emissions, according to the United Nations Environment Programme’s Sustainable Fashion: Communication Strategy 2021 – 2024. Unchecked fashion production will account for 26% of all carbon emissions by 2050. Consumers shifting away from fast-fashion trends, and investing in capsule closets or thrifting for clothes over buying new can help reduce the impact the industry has on overall emissions. 

Green Commuting

Opt for sustainable transportation options, such as walking, biking, or using electric or hybrid vehicles. If possible, work remotely to reduce the need for daily commuting. Encourage your workplace to implement telecommuting policies.

Choosing a bike over a car just once a day can reduce the average person’s transportation-related emissions by 67%, according to research from the University of Oxford.

Advocate for Change

Knowledge is power! Engage in conversations about climate change and advocate for policies that promote sustainability. Participate in community initiatives, join local environmental groups, and encourage businesses and policymakers to adopt eco-friendly practices.

By incorporating these practical steps into our daily lives, we can collectively make a substantial impact on combating climate change. Every small action adds up, and as responsible stewards of the planet, it is our duty to contribute to a sustainable and resilient future for generations to come. Through informed choices and advocacy, individuals can be powerful agents of change in the global fight against climate change.