As Earth Day approaches on April 22nd, it’s a chance for us all to take a step back and think about our planet. Earth Day has grown into the world’s largest environmental movement, with the Earth Day Organisation coordinating events across the globe.
The theme for Earth Day 2024 is ‘Planet vs. Plastics’, emphasising the impact that the overuse and irresponsible disposal of plastic is having on our world. As one of Europe’s greenest cities, Cardiff is a prime example of why we should champion the conservation of our environment. Want to help EarthDay.Org in their ‘Planet vs. Plastics’ mission, but not sure where to begin? Tackling climate change and sustainability solutions starts at home, so let’s explore how you can help the planet right here in Cardiff.
There’s a world of difference that you can make from every day switches, especially by reducing your single-use plastics. The excessive use of single-use coffee cups presents a pressing issue, with over one billion being thrown away annually! Consider investing in a reusable coffee cup that will serve you for years to come. Even better, why not buy your reusable cup from a local shop to champion our amazing Cardiff businesses? Many Cardiff coffee shops will grant a discount when you bring your reusable cup too! Waterloo Tea, who have various locations around our city, are just one example of a business that not only offers a discount for bringing a reusable cup but sells its own as well.
Plastic bags. Another culprit for single-use disposable plastic. They’re flimsy, tear easily and often end up in landfills or polluting our ocean. Tote bags are durable and can be used repeatedly, significantly reducing the amount of plastic waste generated. By making the switch, we help protect wildlife and ecosystems from the harmful effects of plastic pollution and reduce carbon emissions that come along with plastic production. We love the “Support your local” tote bag from The Printhaus featuring original artwork from Cardiff-based artist Luct Llewellyn. Stylish, sustainable and supporting local.
Want to go the extra mile in the Planet vs. Plastics mission? You could organise or participate in a local cleanup. Registering with earthday.org provides a platform for a larger-scale cleanup event, or you could organise a smaller cleanup with the family. Armed with gloves and bin bags, venture out to explore your local streets and green spaces and help the planet whilst teaching your little ones the importance of caring for the environment.
Another of Earth Day’s key initiatives is rejecting fast fashion. What better way to do so than to celebrate Cardiff’s independent shops, businesses and boutiques? Embracing locally-made garments and second-hand shops promotes conscious consumption and supports the local economy. Be sure to check out Déjà Vu, a pre-loved boutique based in the heart of Pontcanna, striving to provide a unique shopping experience by offering quality and special pieces that are timeless, affordable and planet-friendly.
Learning to care for and repair clothes we already own is another brilliant way of promoting sustainability and extending the lifespan of our wardrobes. By taking the time to mend a tear or replace a button, we decrease unnecessary consumption.
Don’t forget to re-discover the charm of our city’s markets while making eco-conscious choices. By opting to purchase produce from local market sellers where possible, you’re contributing to the growth of the local economy and playing a vital role in reducing your carbon footprint. Buying locally sourced produce means fewer food miles, which means less carbon emissions and fresher food! At Cardiff Farmers Market, more than 100 farmers and small producers sell food and drink across their three regular markets every week: Riverside Market on Sundays, Roath Market on Saturdays and Rhiwbina Market on Fridays.
Looking for more ways to get stuck in and look after our city? Visit EarthDay.Org https://www.earthday.org/earth-day-2024/
