World Environment Day 2023: Effective ways to cut carbon footprint and reduce plastic waste

World Environment Day is observed on June 5 annually and is backed by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). This day, celebrated by millions of people across the world, is probably the most opportune occasion to raise awareness about the need for environmental activism and the challenges of climate changes.

On World Environment Day, stakeholders like governments, non-governmental organisations, businesses and communities undertake various initiatives to contribute to the environment and sustainable development.

This day essentially mobilises transformative action from every corner of the world in order to protect the degradation of our environment. One of the best ways by which we can preserve our environment is by reducing our carbon footprint.

Let us take a look at some of the ways by which you can reduce your carbon footprint and reduce plastic waste.

•  Not many people know that the clothing sector generates a significant portion of all global carbon emissions. According to a report by Mossy Earth, the clothing industry contributes to about 10 percent of the global carbon emissions and is the second biggest industrial polluter. Fast fashion is particularly very bad for the environment. The fast fashion industry commonly uses the polyester fibre, which is inexpensive throw-away clothing. But the manufacturing of these garments results in enormous CO2 emissions. So, you can shun fast fashion and opt for sustainable and environmentally friendly apparel in order to reduce your carbon footprint.

•  You can also reduce carbon footprint by cutting on your meat and dairy consumption. Meat and dairy impact emission of greenhouse gases as livestock accounts for 14.5 percent of the world’s greenhouse gases each year, reported the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations.

• By switching to renewable energy sources such as solar power and wind, you can have a positive impact on the environment.

• The shunning of private cars, specifically fuel-guzzling SUVs, will go a long way in reducing carbon footprint. You should use public transport more often and inculcate the habit of walking for short distances.

Reducing Plastic Pollution

The theme for this year’s World Environment Day 2023 is “Solutions to plastic pollution.”

This theme has been selected by the United Nations to drive home the message that everyone should start living plastic free and adopt a ‘zero waste’ lifestyle. Plastic pollution is the most visible form of the harm we are causing to our planet.

According to a World Wildlife Fund report, without a global response, there could be more plastic in the sea than fish by 2050. Plastic pollution is not only harmful for the wildlife, it affects humans as well. According to estimates by the United Nations, each person on Earth consumes more than 50,000 microplastic particles per year.

One of the best ways to start your plastic free journey is to completely avoid single-use plastic. We should all try to avoid using plastic cutlery and water bottles made of throw-away plastic. By taking these simple steps, we can reduce plastic pollution and avoid causing irreparable harm to the environment.