Connecting to Nature Waste Free and Sustainably
The theme for this year’s World Environment Day- Connecting People to Nature encouraged people to get outdoors and into nature, to appreciate its beauty and its importance, and to take forward the call to protect the Earth that we share. Connecting to nature can create awareness about the fragility and sensitivity of our ecosystems and the impact that can result from human activity.
While the benefits of connecting people to nature is well researched and documented, to be able to enjoy these environments free from pollution and degradation is something that we should all be able to access and enjoy. While it can be easy to become overwhelmed and confused by the mixed messages about what we as individuals, businesses and communities can do to protect the environment, there are many ways that we can all contribute. The choices we make in our everyday lives, from what we buy at the supermarket to how we dispose of batteries, can have a positive impact.
“There is no such thing as ‘away’.
When we throw something away
it must go somewhere”.
Waste is an increasing global issue that, for some of us is easier out of sight, out of mind, however, there is growing awareness and education about what practical actions we can take to address this issue. One example is the recent ABC 3-part series ‘War on Waste’ that addresses the waste problems we face in Australia and what we can do about it. From facts on food wastage, disposable coffee cups to where to recycle soft plastic, it provides interesting information and practical solutions for everyday Australians. If you would like to access this series on ABC iView- click here.
Tourism operators have opportunities to educate their staff, guests and the wider community about impacts of their actions and the importance of protecting and conserving the environment. These operators are in a unique position as they connect on a daily basis with a wide range of people from different backgrounds.
If you are wanting to make a difference in your local community, you can contact your local council and ask them what local initiatives, policies and strategies they have implemented to ensure that the environment is being protected and conserved. Local councils are also a good place to start if you want to know more about waste management in your area.
To ensure that future generations can connect to nature that has been protected and conserved, we all need to take action!
Resources
- Planet Ark have various campaigns that range from planting trees for Tree Day, coffee ground recycling tips or changing to energy efficient light globes which are all small changes that individual can do to add up to big savings for the environment. For more information on these campaigns and others, please visit their website.
- Disposable Coffee Cups - https://www.theguardian.com/sustainable-business/2017/may/09/coffee-order-would-you-like-environmental-sustainability-with-that?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
- Disposing of batteries - http://recyclingnearyou.com.au/batteries/