How You Can be a Custodian of the Planet

So, the time has come for my last blog post (for now)! I’ve had a wonderful time exploring the ways that humans can protect life on Earth and have been inspired in many ways. With that said, I’d like to dedicate this final post to 7 different ways that all of us, wherever you are, can become a better custodian of the Earth.

1. Volunteer

There are many different ways to help out all kinds of organisations that work in conservation and beyond. This is the perfect way to spend some time doing something you believe in, getting to meet new people, and feeling accomplished. During COVID (and depending on what tier we’re in), many organisations are still open to socially distant volunteering, such as the London Wildlife Trust.

2. Shop sustainably

Try to be conscious about what products you are buying, and whether they are sustainable or not. Check out this article which explains what makes a product sustainable. Also, shopping at thrift stores and charity shops is a wonderful way to donate to charity, be sustainable and find really cool, interesting things!

3. Reduce waste

As much as possible, try to reduce the amount you throw out. This leads to less going to landfill and you consuming less new things – both which are good for the health of the planet. For example, cook less wastefully, upcycle old items of clothing, and compost food.

4. Eat less meat and shop more locally

As we’ve seen, agriculture is currently one of the biggest causes of biodiversity loss on the planet, mostly due to the massive amounts of land used to create monocultures of crops and to farm cattle. Shopping locally is better for your health, as is eating less meat.

5. Protest (but stay safe in COVID and use social media)

In the times of COVID, the priority is to stay safe and socially distance, but many socially distant protests have been carried out during this time – if you do decide to attend one, ensure you stay alert, have a mask and hand sanitizer with you. If going out to protest isn’t for you, raise awareness of issues on social media – this can be an extremely effective way to get people to listen.

6. Sign petitions

Don't underestimate the power of petitions! They are an extremely effective way of calling political attention to things important to you. Plus, they are really quick and easy to do. Once you’ve signed one, you can even send it to your friends to sign too. They’re one of the best ways to make a difference in such a small amount of time.

7. Vote!

Remember to vote - vote for the planet and the people. Research the manifestos of different parties and see what goals align most with what you think is most important. Make sure your voice gets heard in this noisy world.

Thank you so much for following along with me, until next time!

Looking after the Earth requires all of us to work together (Source: UN News)