Background
When it comes to making sustainable changes to help reduce carbon footprint, one small change may feel somewhat insignificant to some, but when these changes are embraced by society, the combined results are staggering.
Solution
During Cork County Cuts Carbon Month this November, Cork County Council is asking everyone in Cork County to Make One Change and support climate action.
For example, when stopping for a coffee on the way to work each morning or out on a walk, bringing a reusable cup will save up to 365 disposable cups a year. Globally, it is estimated that 500 billion single use cups are discarded to landfill or incineration every year and in Ireland, it is estimated that over 22,000 of these non-recyclable cups are disposed of every hour.
As one person’s actions can make the difference, Cork County Council has also suggested a number of pledges, for adults and children, to ‘make one change’. These pledges are simple actions, such as connecting with nature, walking instead of driving for short journeys where possible, or pledging to buy no new items of clothing for November in support of slow fashion. A full list of pledges can be found on www.corkcoco.ie.
In addition, a series of free talks and events for adults and children focusing on climate action, which are taking place in local libraries all over the county. These events will be covering a range of topics from ocean plastics and organic foods, to making your own bees wax wrap.
Benefits of Solution
Climate change is primarily caused by too much carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. Making small changes can make a big difference in reducing the carbon footprint.