Due to these unprecedented times, we are living in, World Environment Day will likely look a bit different in 2020. However, it is no less important. Drawing attention to this initiative might just be more important than ever right now. This year’s event will center around biodiversity, which essentially is life on Earth as we know it.
Humans depend on ecosystems for all our essential services, fresh water, food, medicine, soil fertility and food production — to name just a few. The ecosystems that foster these services need biodiversity to maintain their strength and ability to produce. Biodiversity also plays a major role in the fight on climate change, given that it benefits our economy and is a valued part of many cultures around the world.
Why Should We Protect Our Environment?
We only have one Earth and each day it provides so much to humanity, in a myriad of ways. We take much of what it offers us for granted, and that needs to change. We have a responsibility as humans to protect the environment. There are a host of benefits to be experienced if, as a society at all levels, we focus to preserve biodiversity.
A diverse ecosystem can keep global warming at lower rates, below 2 degrees. Deforestation is responsible for more than 10% of all global greenhouse gas emissions caused by humans. Wetland ecosystems help to ease extreme storms and flooding that is related to climate change. Conserving and restoring these ecosystems are crucial to the future of our planet.
The world’s economy is highly dependent on biological resources. Food, commercial forestry, and ecotourism are just some of the industries that are directly impacted by biodiversity. In developing countries, many people rely on diverse ecosystems as their source of food, medicine and fuel.
Religious, cultural, and national identities often include elements of nature in their beliefs and practices. Maintaining biodiversity is important to these groups, as they deserve to live alongside the elements they value. Artists and designers also draw inspiration from nature — and a world without colour and creativity does not foster a positive and motivating future.
How Can People Protect the Environment?
We are all familiar with the large-scale efforts that are being made to protect the environment globally. Most of us are not able to directly influence government policy, but we are in control of our daily lives and the decisions we make. If we act consciously and understand the repercussions or benefits that result from our behaviour or purchasing choices, it can make a world of difference.
Many people may wonder: are we doing enough to protect the environment?
The answer is that there is always more that we can do, both collectively and individually. Most of the damage to the environment stems from consumption, what we consume, how much we consume and how often. Here is a small list of simple things you can do in your daily life to positively impact the environment:
- Consume less
- Choose reusable over single-use
- Recycle properly
- Buy local
- Walk, bike, or carpool
- Use less water
- Use your purchasing power for good
Celebrate with gesund
Here at gesund, we believe in the importance of supporting and protecting our environment. Our wellness clinic/gift shop located in downtown Toronto strives to incorporate these beliefs into our operations. We carry sustainable and locally made gifts so that you can feel good about your purchase. We also offer high-quality health care in a safe and comfortable environment.
If you are in our area and looking for an environmentally-conscious service or product, please come by for a visit once our doors open again! We can’t wait to see you in the coming months.
