- Taking steps to address climate change not only
benefits the environment but also has positive impacts on our health.
Beyond the noble pursuit of protecting our planet, embracing this global challenge offers a remarkable opportunity to fortify our own well-being.
By integrating specific practices into the fabric of our daily lives, we possess the power to diminish greenhouse gas emissions and unlock a profound transformation in our overall vitality.
The following are five positive actions that can help slow or minimise climate change while promoting better health outcomes:
1. Embrace Active Transport
Embracing walking and cycling, offers numerous health benefits. It reduces the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, and musculoskeletal conditions.
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By relying less on cars and opting for walking or cycling, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, decreasing lung cancer, asthma, heart disease, and stroke.
2. Adopt a Plant-Based Diet
Consuming Plant-based foods, like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, benefits our health and the environment. By consuming more plant- and fewer animal-based foods, we can maintain a healthy weight, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce blood pressure.
Additionally, plant-based diets have a lower carbon footprint, helping to mitigate climate change.
3. Reduce Consumption of High-Calorie Processed Foods
Cutting down on high-calorie processed foods promotes healthier eating habits and reduces excess energy consumption and associated environmental impacts.
Processed foods, often high in saturated fat, added sugars, and salt, require more energy to produce and contribute to landfill waste due to their packaging. We support our health and reduce our ecological footprint by choosing whole, unprocessed foods.
4. Opt for Tap Water
Drinking tap water, especially in areas with high water quality standards like Victoria, provides multiple benefits. It is more environmentally friendly and better for our health than sugary drinks and bottled water.
By choosing tap water over bottled alternatives, we reduce plastic waste and energy consumption associated with production and transportation.
5. Improve Home Energy Efficiency
Efficient cooling and heating of our homes keep us comfortable and save energy.
Properly insulating our homes, using energy-efficient appliances, and implementing innovative heating and cooling practices can reduce energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
These practices contribute to healthier communities and alleviate the strain on healthcare systems.
