Climate change is a very real, and very scary reality on Earth. Climate change is leading to rising temperatures, rising sea levels, extreme weather conditions, and changes in the ecosystem. This all hurts our environment, and our livelihood. Rising temperatures create and increase heat related illnesses and deaths while rising sea levels impact coastal environments and increase flooding, erosion, and saltwater contamination. Many of these changes are human-caused and there are some simple things that you can do at home to help. A little step goes a long way when many homes participate.  

Some things you can do to help fight against climate change: 

• Reduce your carbon footprint. Reducing your carbon footprint means limiting the amount of greenhouse gas you use every day. Changes like riding your bike instead of cars, carpooling, riding public transport, and getting electric cars can reduce greenhouse gases.  

• Use energy wisely. Use your energy wisely and don’t waste it. There are many ways you can help preserve your energy use. Some ways include using LED lightbulbs and using energy efficient appliances. Energy efficient appliances use less electricity than standard models while performing the same actions. Another habit you can start is unplugging your appliances, which reduces “phantom” energy use. You can also use a smart thermostat, which controls your cooling and heating, so you don’t waste energy.  

• Waste less and recycle more. Buying less, avoiding single use plastics, and buying secondhand help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These changes help reduce the need for raw materials, which in turn reduces energy and pollution that goes with extracting and processing these raw materials. Recycling also helps divert water from landfills, where it decomposes and releases methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. 

• Buy sustainably. Avoiding fast fashion helps reduce waste on Earth and helps reduce resource consumption. Sustainable objects are made to use less energy, raw materials, and water when they are being made. Buying sustainable means that the products are most likely made from recycled materials and are meant to be recycled again.  

These simple habits and ways of life can help prevent climate change’s impending effects. Small changes between you and your family can make a significant impact. Take action now and help save the Earth.