Throughout the summer, an abundance of time is spent in
nature. Although the sunshine offers positive physical and mental health
benefits, action must be taken to prevent an unhealthy rise in global surface
temperatures. A sustainable summer can be achieved, by engaging in easy
zero-waste habits and participating in enjoyable activities.
1.
Always carry a re-usable bottle
Over 7.7 billion plastic bottles are used, within the UK
each year [Water UK, 2018]. Single-use plastics accumulate either in landfill
where they release greenhouse gases as they decompose or within marine
environments where they are ingested by/cause harm to life underwater.
Approximately 340 million plastic bottles would be saved by an individual, by
carrying a refillable water bottle. Therefore, as temperatures rise, a
refillable water bottle is essential for remaining hydrated without harming the
planet.
2.
Eat seasonal fruit and vegetables
Over one third of fresh products is imported from climate-vulnerable
countries into the UK. Transporting fresh produce thousands of miles across the
world generates a mass volume of greenhouse gases which accelerate global
warming. Seasonal fruit and vegetables grown locally are fresher, healthier,
more tasty and have a lower carbon footprint that others imported
out-of-season.
3.
Purchase reef-safe sun protection
Conventional sun-creams often contain oxybenzone, octocrylene
and octinoxate which disrupt hormones and eventually enter oceans once washed
of human skin. over 14,000 tons of toxic sunscreen enter the ocean each year; bleaching
coral reefs and poisoning marine life [Molvar, 2018]. When purchasing sun
protection, look for reef-safe formulas that do not contain oxybenzone, octocrylene
and octinoxate.
4.
Ditch
the car; walk, run or cycle in the sunshine
The transport industry consumes the largest amount of carbon
(through petroleum) and emits the highest volume of greenhouse gas emissions
worldwide. Travelling by foot or by bike generates zero carbon emissions and
therefore are two simple forms of climate activism. Walking and cycling are
also proven to have physical and psychological health benefits which may be
noticed with only 30 minutes of either being performed 5 days a week.
5.
Ditch or thrift summer trends
New fashion trends emerge with the launch of spring/summer
collections. Each year, the same products re-enter stores in new colours or
slightly-altered silhouettes. As the fashion industry was coined the second
most polluting, refusing to engage in short-lived trends will help to reduce
the volume of low-quality, disposable garments eventually entering landfill.
The key to a gorgeous and sustainable summer wardrobe, it to re-wear and love
items already in your wardrobe. However, if you do fancy purchasing something
new for the season, shop at ethical boutiques (including Madia & Matilda)
or second-hand stores.
6.
Dry clothing naturally/ on the line
Drying clothing outside requires zero energy and will
prevent fabric damages occurring within a tumble-drying machine. If you do not
have access to an outdoors space, clothing may be hung inside on (bathroom/ bedroom/kitchen)
rails above a towel.
7.
Plan a staycation
Aviation is the most carbon-intensive, polluting mode of
transport. If you are in need of break from your daily routine, discover and
travel to new places within your local or nearby areas. As well as saving time
and potentially money, staycations save a significant amount of greenhouse
gases from entering the atmosphere.
8.
Unplug, go outside and enjoy the sunshine
A digital detox is proven to improve sleep, decrease
stress/anxiety levels and enhance cognitive functions. As well as improving
your mental health and supplementing you with vitamin D, switching off and unplugging
technology will reduce energy consumption.
References:
Water UK. (2018). National Refill Day. Available at: https://www.water.org.uk/news-item/national-refill-day/
Molvar, K. (2018). ‘Is Your Sunscreen Bad for the Planet?
Here’s How to Choose an Ocean-Safe Formula’, August 14, Vogue. Available at: https://www.vogue.com/article/reef-safe-sunscreens-oxybenzone-free-sea-turtles-environment-stream2sea
Sincerely Madia & Matilda
