As time progresses, the world is becoming almost inhabitable for our beautiful wildlife. Forests are being bulldozed, waters are getting polluted, and urbanization is at an all-time high. Though, it isn’t all doom and gloom if we can focus on making a change.
By following these simple steps, you can make a difference in the world and the lives of many animals. If you want to truly do your part, these simple steps are all it takes to kickstart your journey to becoming a wildlife warrior!
Minimize Waste with the Three R’s
Following the three R’s (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) can help create responsible waste patterns. Reducing your personal waste all starts with being mindful of consumption habits.
You should try to avoid using any plastic for single use. Instead, try to use reusable alternatives for things such as water bottles, containers, and shopping bags. When we get rid of our need for disposable items, we can avoid adding to the huge number of plastic that gets into the ocean and other bodies of water.
It is essential to reuse as many items as possible. Before you go to throw something in the bin, ask yourself if it is possible to refurbish or repurpose the item. Not only is refurbishing super fun, but it also stops the demand for new products.
In turn, you reduce waste, decrease product demand, and avoid further habitat destruction. Recycling is a great way to divert waste away from landfills. You can look up your local area's governing body to learn about the local recycling guidelines.
Support Positive Practices and Local Organizations
The choices we make when shopping, visiting zoos, and going about life can directly impact wildlife, positive practices, and ecosystems. Look for certifications such as the Forest Stewardship Council, Fair Trade, or Dolphin-safe when looking at products. These important certifications ensure that the product has been made in an ethical way.
By choosing products with these certifications, you support practices that decrease harm to wildlife and their natural environments. Sustainable choices are crucial for wildlife conservation. For example, when purchasing seafood, make informed decisions by consulting sustainable seafood guides provided by Seafood Watch and the Marine Stewardship Council.
These guides help you select better options that are harvested respectfully and responsibly. Even something as simple as reducing your salmon consumption can save Orca populations! Knowing these things can drastically change the world we live in.
As the saying goes, knowledge is power! On top of all this, when visiting zoos, ensure that these zoos are ethical. By not doing your research, you fuel the animal neglect and abuse occurring in many roadside attractions around the world.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint with Day-to-Day Mindfulness
Reducing your carbon footprint may sound hard, but it isn’t at all! We all know that climate change poses a massive threat to wildlife and their natural environments. You should start by looking at your transportation choices.
Where you can, try to opt for carpooling, biking, walking, or using public transport. If you’re able to, you may even consider switching to an electric car or one with high fuel efficiency.
Reducing your energy use at home is another big step. When not in use, make sure you turn off lights, appliances, and electronics. You may even consider purchasing energy-efficient appliances. You can even support renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
You can help mitigate the huge effects of climate change by reducing your carbon emissions. Even turning off the AC when you go to work can make a huge difference!
Create Wildlife-Friendly Spaces in Your Yard
Even in busy, urban areas, you can create wildlife-friendly areas for your wild little friends. You can make a big change by just planting native plants in your garden. These plants provide both shelter and food for local wildlife, including butterflies, birds, and pollinators.
You should also avoid using pesticides as they can greatly harm insect populations and mess with the ecosystem. Instead, look for organic alternatives to manage pests. For example, did you know that slugs are attracted to beer? Putting out a thimble of Bud Lite can deter these pests from munching on your plants.
You can attract wildlife with bird baths, bird feeders, and bat houses. Soon, you will have your very own Snow White village buzzing with vibrant wild creatures.
Support Conservation Organizations and Other Nonprofits
With the help of conservation organizations, there have been many conservation success stories. There are plenty of nonprofits and organizations out there that dedicate their missions to conversation. You could consider volunteering or donating to these organizations.
Supporting their initiatives can help fund habitat restoration, critical research, and crucial protection efforts. As a supporter, you become part of a massive effort to safeguard wildlife and their habitats. These organizations work tirelessly to restore ecosystems, protect endangered species, and advocate to prioritize conservation.
There are so many beautiful animals in need of help. In the last 500 years, there have been over 800 animals that have gone extinct. Even one extinction is too many.
Change starts now. Change starts with you.
