It is official. The Year of Climate Action for Singapore is 2018!
As noted by Environment and Water Resources Minister Masagos Zulkifli, “As a small island city-state vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, Singapore is committed to the effective implementation of the Paris Agreement”.
Singapore, being a low coastal area country, will definitely suffer from climate change. The daily mean temperature is projected to rise by up to 4.6°C towards the end of the century. Similarly, sea level estimated to rise by up to about 1m by 2100.
With the government making this declaration to commit towards combating climate change, it is time for us as citizens to acknowledge our responsibility and play a part as well.
Hence, here are 3 small and simple changes in your life to contribute to the Year of Climate Action.
Just say NO
These two words hold great power when it comes to helping us make a decision in our lives! Say no to straws. Say no the plastic bags. Say no to any form of plastic. Also, these two words are free of charge! Just by saying no, you are using the power of a small action to make a big change in the world.
Think twice before buying
In Singapore, the amount of solid waste generated in 2016 increased to 7.81 million tonnes, up by 140,700 tonnes from 7.67 million tonnes in 2015.
However, if you re-evaluate your buying habits, you will realise that you are able to eliminate unnecessary waste.
Think of buying second hand. Think of using reusables. Think of borrowing books, buying second-hand book or doing book swaps. Most importantly, think of whether it is a need or a want.
Be more aware
To be able to make responsible decisions for yourself and for the environment, it is crucial to be aware of the events happening in the world. Certainly, relying solely on others to feed you information is not enough.
Take a step out of your comfort zones and read on all these issues that affect your view on climate change. Go in with an open mind. Read on issues such as ocean pollution, renewable energy, starving polar bear or plastic waste.
Start somewhere and you enrich yourself with the knowledge to make better and wiser decisions in your life!
In short, these are three small and simple steps that do not require you to devote a large number of resources or time to be committed to. So what are you waiting for? Make 2018 the year you start making a change.