Changing the world doesn’t happen overnight and the work of one person may not make a huge difference. But, that one person could inspire another, and another and another. Suddenly you have tons of people making small changes and that can make a significant difference to the world.
But where do you start?
If you’re already in Christmas mode, perhaps it’s not quite the time to start saving the world. After all, there’s mince pies to eat! Though try using reusable giftwrap, shopping for experiences rather than presents and searching for eco-friendly gift lists.
Whatever you do over Christmas try to start fresh January 1st with these simple ways to make the world a better place.
Volunteer at a school
When it comes to saving the environment or creating a more accepting world in the future, children are key.
Offering your time to local schools or creating an after-school program will make a huge difference in your community. Plus, the work you do now and the skills you teach your kids, will go into helping generations to come.
Go paperless
Workplaces have seen a major shift over the past decade, with many attempting to go paperless.
If your workplace hasn’t already done so, work with senior managers to install recycling bins for paper or suggest online platforms that can help streamline processes to use less paper. Notes, invoices, contracts can all be taken, paid and signed online now, so take advantage of this technology.
Going paperless is a great way to reduce deforestation.
Reconsider your transport options
Although there is a big push on hybrid or electric cars nowadays, not everyone has the budget to make the switch. Plus, hybrid vehicles still contribute to greenhouse gases and carbon emissions.
If you need to commute a short distance, try jogging, walking or cycling. For jobs further away, perhaps look at what public transport routes are available.
For those that really need to drive, there are plenty of towns and cities that offer carpooling communities. If you’re driving in the same direction as someone else, why not take on car off the road and make a friend at the same time?
Conserve water
Swap the bath for a shower – but make sure you’re only staying in there long enough to get clean! Conserve water while brushing your teeth by turning the tap off between rinses.
Try to time how long you’re keeping water running, the next time see if you can run it for less. Who knows, perhaps in a month’s time, you’ll have your shower routine down to 2 minutes!
Donate to clean water charities
You probably already know that making a charitable donation can make the world a better place. But did you know there are charities working to provide clean water across the globe?
Water related disease takes many lives in the most poverty-struck areas of the world, and your donation could prevent hundreds from getting fatally ill.
Be more generous
Whether it’s helping a hand in the community, donating to a local cause or giving your unused items to someone in need, being more generous will not only help those around you (and leave you feeling positive), but it will inspire others to do the same.
