How can we protect our planet?

Izzie

We buy - and dispose of - way too many clothes. Particularly talking about women here, and often sadly younger women, who will feel the brunt of climate change much more than an oldie like me who won't be here in 40 years time.... I can't believe that people wear something only 2 or 3 times, then chuck it out. Please don't put unwanted clotihing in the bin - at least recycle it... And we should just be buying what we REALLY need, and then be happy to wear it over and over again. I just read and was horrified to learn that Australians are the world’s biggest consumers of fashion, purchasing an average of 53 items of clothing per person each year. And some of it is put into rubbish without even being worn!! It's hard for many to afford good quality clothes, but sadly a lot of cheaper fabrics used are not environmentally friendly. Protecting our planet means we all need to take action in some way .... before it's too late...

Paul3258

Still not over this song tho it’s just a good one I think I might listen too

Radda

It starts with our own homes! Use the recycle bins accordingly its specific purposes! Recycle the batteries in the special boxes at the supermarkets or other places. This beautiful planet is literally destroyed by us, people! If every single one of us would care and treat this nature with respect, this world would be a better place to live in 🌼🍁🌿🌳

buttonpops

Firstly, I believe we all need to stop buying so much. Make do with what you already have, borrow or upcycle, shop at Op Shops, go on facebook local 'free' pages or the Freecycle website. I have salvaged so many items this way and also given many things away in this manner.

Sahida31983077

it’s a daily habit shift that reduces demand for plastic production and waste. If enough people make this small change, it can drive systemic change in manufacturing and waste management.

Deejay11

When you’re out and about, pick up other people’s rubbish and bin it! This particularly relates to takeaway food and drink wrappings and containers. We visit a coastal area daily to walk our dog, and are disgusted by the continual rubbish that is discarded by visitors. At least we’re helping to keep the environment in its natural state by binning rubbish.

Sus1

I think the single biggest ways individuals can help our planet is to buy less and when you do buy, buy things that will last. We may not he able to do much about commercial impacts on the environment but we can send a message that we are not just going to buy stuff that keeps being thrown out and adding to the waste.

abarnes

One powerful action everyone can take: reduce consumption.

That might sound broad, but it's deceptively simple and deeply effective. Whether it's energy, water, food, clothing, or electronics—consuming less means:

- Lower carbon emissions (less production, transport, and waste)
- Less strain on natural resources (fewer materials extracted, less habitat destruction)
- Reduced waste (especially plastics and e-waste that linger for centuries)

Why it matters: Our current systems are built around convenience and abundance, but the planet thrives on balance and restraint. By choosing to repair instead of replace, reuse instead of discard, and pause before purchasing, we shift from passive consumption to active stewardship.

It’s not about deprivation—it’s about intentionality. Every small decision becomes a vote for a more sustainable future.

jtmorri

With Donald Trump stating publicly at the U.N. that climate change is a con that does not promote action and protection of the planet. Personally, I would love to see governments of all countries strengthen their climate policies to reduce emissions, develop new environmentally friendly energy sources and stop oil, coal and mining activities (or at least regulate them better, don't approve them and tax them higher).

As for actions I take. I am a low consumer in all areas of life, a minimalist and energy and water efficient. I buy local, eat less meat, avoid plastics and plastic packaging and I do not waste food. I support and vote for government parties with the stronger environmental policies over those with none or backward ones, whereby they deny that climate change is actually occurring. My personal habits ensure I do not waste water or energy, I do not have things that I do not need, I do not contribute to the waste problem, and I support policies that will contribute to a healthier planet.

antibreeder1m

Hi Harry, unfortunately the online information that you get is very vague and inaccurate. The most robust studies (and your own thinking about the issue) will reveal that the most important ways to help the environment are: (i) being antinatalist, and (ii) being vegan. There is still a LOT of stigma against mentioning these as they often impact on people's personal choices. I am so glad you want to help the ecology, but it will take self-sacrifice which is too much for many people. I recommend watching 'Endgame 2050' free online!! I am very happy to answer your questions.

harry31626210

Hi Harry, unfortunately the online information that you get is very vague and inaccurate. The most robust studies (and your own thinking about the issue) will reveal that the most important ways to...

Thanks so much for your thoughtful answer 🙏. You’ve given me a lot to think about, and I’ll definitely check out Endgame 2050! Really appreciate you sharing this with me.