We all know what recycling is, but how many of us know what does environmental sustainability mean and its importance? Whether it’s separating your plastics, paper, cardboard and aluminum from your food waste, or bringing computers and other electronic equipment to recycling centers, most of us are aware of how to properly recycle our trash. But the term “sustainability” can be a bit confusing for those not in the field.
Sustainability is defined as the quality of something being non-harmful to our environment and not depleting our natural resources, while supporting long-term ecological balance. Environmental sustainability is one of the biggest issues faced by all of us. Nowhere on Earth is untouched by the effect of human activities and pollution. And our ever increasing human population and consumption has put growing constraints on many of our natural resources. Industrialization and modern agricultural practices have polluted the water, air and soil around the world.
The increasing emissions of greenhouse gases are also having a detrimental effect on the Earth. There are estimates that project a 2% increase in temperature by 2050, which will further change the topography of our precious planet. Due to the impact of global warming, glaciers and polar ice are melting at rates 2–3 times higher in comparison to last century. Earth at present is trying to stabilize itself while we are continually polluting it, the impact of which is simply unpredictable.
So what can we do to reduce the harm that is taking place daily to our planet?
- Read and share information on how to live environmentally sustainable lives with your family and friends. Educating others is the only way all of us will learn what we need to do.
- Implement environmental sustainability practices.
- Try to reduce your carbon footprint by ride sharing, walking or riding your bike.
- Speak up with your individual purchasing power and support companies that are working hard toward environmentally responsible, sustainable futures.
- And lastly, remember to recycle mugs, pens, shirts and other branded merchandise!
Know more about SwagCycle.