Pollution, in its multiple forms – air, water, soil and even noise and/or light – has devastating impacts on public health, biodiversity and the quality of life of current and future generations. Today we celebrate Combat Pollution Day, and there are small gestures, in everyday life, that can make all the difference, whether at home, at school/work or in the community.
At home:
Reduce water consumption: Take shorter showers, fix water leaks and use efficient irrigation methods at home and in the garden;
Reduce energy consumption: Turn off lights and electronic devices when you are not using them. Choose LED lamps and use public transport, cycling or carpooling whenever possible;
Adopt sustainable eating habits: Reducing meat consumption, opting for organic and local foods, avoiding food waste and composting organic waste are measures that contribute to reducing soil and water pollution, in addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions;
Separate trash correctly: Recycling is essential to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. Remember: packaging in yellow, glass in green and cardboard in blue;
Use biodegradable products: Avoid chemicals that can contaminate water and soil, opting for ecological and biodegradable alternatives;
Reduce the consumption of material goods: Buy less clothes, furniture and other items, value quality over quantity, practice minimalism and look for conscious consumption alternatives.
At work and school:
Promote a culture of sustainability in the workplace: Encourage energy and water savings, the use of public transport, adopt a hybrid working regime and organize awareness campaigns among employees;
Demand sustainable actions from companies and institutions: Require companies to adopt environmentally responsible practices, consuming products from companies that are committed to sustainability;
Participate in environmental education projects: Volunteer in projects that provide environmental education to children and young people, promoting awareness of environmental preservation.
In the community:
Participate in cleaning and reforestation actions: Organize or participate in cleaning actions on beaches, parks and streets, plant trees in green areas and promote the recovery of degraded areas;
Support environmental ONGs: Donate time or resources to ONGs that work to protect the environment, participating in campaigns and advocacy actions;
Support sustainable public policies: Support the implementation of public policies that promote sustainability, such as investments in renewable energy, quality public transport and adequate solid waste management;
Support companies and organizations committed to sustainability: Consume products from companies that adopt sustainable practices and donate to ONGs that work to protect the environment.
