As chit-chat down the pub with friends turns to the question around how my job is going, more often than not I’m asked how we can all ‘make a difference’ when social and environmental issues, like Climate Change, feel so big. With my Twitter-feed currently full of plastic related tweets following the launch of the Government’s new environmental strategy, it’s a reminder that changing our everyday actions can make a big impact.
While there are heaps of ways to create positive change, here are some I often share:
Sign a petition: Head over to Change.Org (https://www.change.org/ ) to add your signature to a campaign that needs a voice or to help get it to Parliament for discussion. You can also sign up to a petition on Avaaz (https://secure.avaaz.org/page/en/). I often find myself browsing these websites while watching tele in the evening.
Support a small business: Check out Go Fund Me (ww.gofundme.com) where you can support people and causes you care about. Consider investing a small amount of money to help a social enterprise get off the ground.
Volunteer: Most employers offer one or two days paid leave for volunteering but not everyone takes this up. Make sure you book yours in at the beginning of each year. Check out Do It (https://do-it.org/) to find a good cause to support near your home.
Donate your blood: For the ultimate way of doing good, give someone the chance at life by Donating blood. Visit https://www.blood.co.uk/ to book yourself in. At the same time register for organ donation (https://www.organdonation.nhs.uk/) and make sure your loved ones are clear on your preferences.
Make Monday meat free: Go veggie for one day a week to help reduce animal cruelty, biodiversity and Climate Change. For inspiration pop #veggie or #vegan into your Insta feed. While you are thinking about food, buy something extra each week in your food shop and pop it in the local food bank box at your local supermarket.
Download apps for good: Help a blind person to see and complete an everyday task by signing up to ‘Be My Eyes’ enabling them to call you when they need assistance. Or download ‘Donate a photo’ where you pick a cause, pick a photo and share it in turn for a donation. There are heaps more like this so have a browse in the App store.
Multi-task: The next time you head out for a relaxing stroll, take a bag with you and pick up litter and trash along your route. Not only will Mother Nature appreciate the effort, you’ll also make the next person’s walk that much more enjoyable.
What else would you add to this list?
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