What can we all do to help tackle climate change?

March 29, 2024

Melissa Stokes looks at how individuals can play a part by cutting the climate change-causing emissions in their lives. (Source: 1News)

Tackling climate change can often feel like a big topic and it can be hard to work out what we can do to make a real difference.

In Climate Check, 1News is breaking down the big climate questions.

In the latest explainer video in the series, Melissa Stokes has looked at some simple ways to reduce your emissions, like eating less meat and using public transport.

According to Genless, if people take meat out of one meal per week, it will reduce a typical family's emissions by around 7%. There are a lot of steps involved in producing meat, especially red meat.

Genless says some easy ways to eat less meat are:

  • Swap half the meat for beans, veg or lentils in stir-fries, curries, stews or pies
  • Try alternatives like tofu, quorn or dairy substitutes
  • Pick a veggie meal when you eat out
  • Look for tasty ideas on recipe websites

When it comes to shopping, another way individuals and households can reduce emissions is by choosing clothes that last. Opting for quality over quantity is more environmentally friendly and often ends up being cheaper.

The fashion industry produces 10% of annual global carbon emissions, according to The World Bank. This is more carbon than international flights and maritime shipping combined.

Genless suggests checking the stitching on garments is strong, it retains its shape, the material isn't see-through and buttons and zips are good quality.

Another way to play your part is enjoying more "offline downtime". By 2025, the world’s digital activity could produce the same amount of emissions as all cars produce today, Genless says.

Smartphones, streaming services, data centres and networks all require energy and non-renewable resources to be produced, which generates a lot of climate-changing emissions.

Genless suggests some good ways to reduce your digital footprint are streaming video at a lower definition, buyer fewer electronics and putting your devices on sleep mode.

For all the tips and tricks, watch the video above.

To see the full series of Climate Check videos, click here.

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