High or low temperatures, when not expected, remind us of the problem and consequences of climate change. One part of the population is indifferent to this problem, while others expect the Government to ensure a sustainable future. However, due to the seriousness of the challenges posed by climate change, it is not productive to waste time on disappointment. Although we know that the fight against rising average temperatures does not have much chance of success if there are not enough measures and actions at the macro level, we must ask the question – what can we do as individuals in the fight for sustainable development and a clean environment?! Climate change is a strong opponent. We know for sure what negative consequences and challenges await us in the very near future. Therefore, it is necessary to understand that it is the duty of each of us as individuals to act responsibly towards natural resources. In order to do that, it is necessary to raise (self)awareness and to act responsibly based on the information we have. In addition, it is necessary to change some established habits that are not in line with sustainable development.
In order to deal with any problem, it is necessary to know the cause, the essence of the problem and the possible consequences of not solving it. Without information on which are the main causes of increased emissions, what are the consequences of global warming, how to mitigate the negative impact and how to adapt to the new situation, we will not be able to fight for sustainable development without major negative consequences. Due to all the above, it is necessary to constantly educate and inform ourselves about the phenomenon of climate change and environmental protection. By raising (self)awareness on a daily basis, we will become a critical mass that will thus force the Government to take something more serious regarding sustainable development.
Additionally, it is not enough to just possess knowledge and key information if we do not apply that knowledge and do not influence others to do the same. Knowledge must be implemented in practice in order to have a tangible effect and directly contribute to the fight against climate change. If we know how polluted our rivers and air are and what consequences that can have on people’s health, we must act more responsibly. If we know that one plastic bag decomposes for several hundred years, then why use them en masse and not recycle them. Indeed, it feels good to be part of the solution, not part of the problem. In addition, let’s not forget that certain measures of sustainable behavior also enable money savings in the budget.
Furthermore, we are reading these days a new report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change of the United Nations, which explicitly reveals the strength of our opponents – an increase in global temperature of 1.5 or 2 degrees Celsius in the coming years will have negative consequences for the world around us. In order to mitigate the negative consequences of global warming, we must all change some of our previous behaviors and habits. It is especially important to change the consumption habits of the products we consume every day. Let’s act in accordance with the principles of the circular economy – take, use, repair, redistribute, recycle and reduce waste.
Finally, the expected consequences of the rise in average temperature that will be felt in the near future are pressuring each individual to take action. There are many activities and measures that each person can apply to be part of the solution to this challenge. Certainly, it is necessary to first inform oneself, upgrade knowledge, then apply that knowledge and act in accordance with the principles of sustainable development. In addition, the challenges of the future will surely force us to change some established habits in the consumption of various products. Responsible behavior towards the environment is an imperative that must not be ignored.
