By Anup Garg
Climate change isn’t just a global issue—it’s a personal one. The world is racing to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels to avoid severe environmental impacts. For students and young people, this represents an opportunity to lead by example and inspire change.
Anup Garg, Founder and Director of World of Circular Economy (WOCE), outlines small practical steps that can make a tangible difference. These are 10 strategies that young people can use to reduce their carbon footprint and build a more sustainable future.
1. Reimagine Your Commute
Transportation is a significant source of carbon emissions. Instead of driving alone to school, college, or work, students can consider walking, biking, or using public transportation. Those who must drive should consider carpooling or ride-sharing to reduce their carbon footprint. Keeping vehicles in good condition and choosing electric or hybrid models also helps.
2. Conserve Energy on Campus
Universities and colleges tend to consume a lot of energy, but students can take simple steps to reduce their energy use. This includes turning off lights when leaving a room, unplugging chargers when not in use, and opting for energy-efficient appliances. If the campus uses coal-based electricity, each kilowatt-hour consumed emits 0.33229 kg of CO2. Switching to renewable energy sources, like solar or wind, can significantly reduce this impact.
3. Mind Your Food Choices
Reducing food waste and adopting a plant-based diet can significantly decrease the carbon footprint. Every kilogram of food waste generates 0.70021 kg of CO2 equivalent. Planning meals, composting food scraps, and sharing leftovers are practical ways to reduce waste. Switching to plant-based foods is another effective strategy, as animal-based products generally have a larger carbon footprint.
4. Rethink Single-Use Plastics
Plastic production is a major source of emissions, with single-use plastics like bags, bottles, and packaging contributing to the problem. The carbon footprint of a single plastic bag is about 1.58 kg of CO2 equivalent—equivalent to driving 8 km in a gas-powered car. With more than 300 million tons of plastic produced each year, half of which is single-use, plastics account for around 3.3% of global emissions. To minimize this impact, students can choose reusable bags, bottles, and containers, and opt for products with minimal plastic packaging. Supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability is also a powerful way to make a difference.
5. Tackle E-Waste Responsibly
E-waste is a growing environmental concern. When it’s time to replace electronic devices like phones or laptops, students should consider recycling or donating the old ones instead of discarding them. Choosing electronics with longer lifespans and opting for certified e-waste recycling programs ensures proper disposal and recycling.
6. Conserve Water and Reduce Waste
Water conservation plays a crucial role in sustainability. Fixing leaks, shortening showers, and using water-efficient fixtures not only save water but also reduce the energy required to treat and distribute it. This, in turn, reduces carbon emissions associated with water management.
7. Support Green Businesses
Students can support companies that prioritize sustainability by purchasing from businesses that use renewable energy or engage in carbon offset programs. Such choices encourage more companies to follow a greener path and reduce their carbon footprint.
8. Join Community Clean-Ups
Participating in local clean-up events and other community-driven environmental initiatives can raise awareness about climate change while contributing to a cleaner environment. These events offer opportunities to meet like-minded people and create a positive impact within the community.
9. Advocate for Change
Students can influence university policies and push for more sustainable practices on campus. Joining or forming student groups dedicated to environmental causes can help advocate for reduced energy use, improved waste management, and increased sustainability in campus operations, leading to lasting impact.
10. Stay Informed and Educate Others
Knowledge is a powerful tool for change. By staying updated on climate issues and sharing what they learn with friends and family, students can drive broader awareness. The more people understand the impact of their choices, the more likely they are to make sustainable decisions. Together, even small actions can add up to a significant difference.
Students and youth are the backbone of a nation and can be leaders in the fight against climate change. Each step, no matter how small, brings them closer to a more sustainable future.
(The author is Anup Garg, Founder and Director of World of Circular Economy (WOCE), and the views expressed in this article are his own)
