I understand this attitude, I really do, but the clock is ticking and it’s an outlook that we just can’t afford to take. The bottom line is that the planet is dying, and it’s happening really quickly. Unless we make drastic changes to the way we live now, then the environment will become increasingly uninhabitable and humanity increasingly under-resourced. I know this sounds dramatic, and even borders on the apocalyptic, but this is the stark reality of the future if we carry on behaving the way we are.
My parents had and continue to have their say, but now it’s also up to the next generation: we need to take some responsibility for our planet, because right now the future is looking pretty bleak. Wherever you are in your journey to sustainability, don’t give up or lose heart. The smallest changes can still make a difference, and if you’re not prepared to make them then why should anyone else? I’m in no way perfect, I’m still exploring the myriad ways in which I can become more sustainable and ethical in my consumption, but I’ve opened my eyes: I’m aware that big changes need to happen really, really soon. And awareness is the first step towards change.
I don’t think anyone can become sustainable overnight, but I do think that we can be brave and make changes, even though they might impact our lives e.g. trying to not eat cheese (still sobbing) or not buying the latest dress from Zara just because you want it. If everyone starts to become more aware and takes more responsibility for how they live their lives, then we may be in with a fighting chance to save this planet.