You might not be able to beat the brutes who run auctions of lions, carve up the dunes with their 4x4s and strip virgin forests for wood, but there’s a whole lot you can do to make the world a better place.
The act of doing something positive is incredibly powerful, even if it’s just something like skipping a car trip once in a while. Here are some suggestions:
Put your money where your mouth is
Most of us own so much already – do you really need another serving spoon, pair of beach thongs, white T-shirt- Rather spend your money on your health: get a gym membership, hire a personal trainer or take an adventure holiday that exercises your body and excites your mind.
Think before you drive
If you reduce your driving by 32km a week, you cut emissions of climate-changing carbon dioxide by 450kg per year. And you might shave off some unwanted kilograms too! Depending on what kind of exercise you do instead of driving, you can burn 3000 – 10000 extra kilojoules a week.
Give up one beef meal a week
If you (and 999 others) ate one less beef-based meal a week for a year, you’d save 35 tonnes of grain, 35 tonnes of topsoil and 100 million litres of water (not to mention cows). You’ll also cut fat and kilojoules, lower your cholesterol, and reduce your risk for certain cancers.
Rediscover soap
Many of the world’s streams contain disinfectants and antibiotics which have made their way from our homes into our waterways, where they may harm aquatic life. Paradoxically, household products that target bacteria encourage the growth of drug-resistant germs, which threaten our health. Stick with plain old soap – it works just as well.
Order your fish dish wisely
Nine of the world’s 16 major fishing zones have been declared “over fished”, and the status of endemic fish is serious. Check the status of the fish you’re planning to buy or order by sending an sms with the name of the fish to 079 499 8795.
Shop at farmers markets
They’re becoming increasingly popular throughout SA, and by supporting these initiatives you encourage local growers to keep their land an agricultural space instead of selling out to developers. You’re also likely to find a wider selection of organic produce at a farmer’s market, and the seasonal produce on offer will help you maximise your intake of vitamins and nutrients.
Grow something edible
There’s nothing quite like eating your own home-grown produce, and gardening eases stress while putting you intimately in touch with the earth and its seasons. Growing your own herbs and veggies is also a great way to reduce your grocery bill!
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