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The only way we can really "do our bit" is by actively pushing for systemic change, not by making change on an individual level. Because, unless you make it eas

The only way we can really "do our bit" is by actively pushing for systemic change, not by making change on an individual level. Because, unless you make it easier for the average human (not the cushy middle class westerner that can work remotely) not to contribute to greater carbon output, it won't make a difference. Rather than buying long-lasting products as an individuals say (instead of the fast-fashion or planned obsolescence products that most people buy), we could push for legislation that makes those products less available and helps people to buy more natural-resource-efficient-in-the-long-term products. Most people, who are not well off, have no choice but to buy the cheap stuff that breaks soon. Most people have to drive in a carbon-emitting car to work because there is no electrified public transit. Most investors prefer to build products in a cheap way that they can flip fast because it leads to greater returns. Until we can collectively reverse the logic of this system, we will not be "doing our part". We need to be up in arms and posing real challenges to the people in power that could change this situation, until they do change it sufficiently. Protests have not been working, boycotts have not been working. There are not many options left apart from general strikes or all out revolt. As you can see, the youth have actually understood this and have been on a school strike for nearly 2 years. However, this is not a sufficient threat to those in power and it must grow and include everyone else before we will see meaningful change.

stormdennis 6y ago
I'm not a consumer by nature. I spend less than €100 a year on clothes I'd say, I cut my own hair, I wear clothes over and over till they fall apart, I shower a couple of times a week. I'm not middle class by anything other than mentality maybe. The nearest public transport to me is a bus stop 2 miles away with a few buses per day. I coppice trees grow vegetables. The worst I do for the planet is eat meat and drink milk. To be honest I'm a bit tired of listening to lectures from people who in their own lives are green at the margins but think nothing of taking a flight.

stormdennis 6y ago

I'm not a consumer by nature. I spend less than €100 a year on clothes I'd say, I cut my own hair, I wear clothes over and over till they fall apart, I shower a couple of times a week. I'm not middle class by anything other than mentality maybe. The nearest public transport to me is a bus stop 2 miles away with a few buses per day. I coppice trees grow vegetables. The worst I do for the planet is eat meat and drink milk. To be honest I'm a bit tired of listening to lectures from people who in their own lives are green at the margins but think nothing of taking a flight.