As globalization and commercialization is on the rise, pollution has become widespread havoc in Dubai. The city generates around 9 million tonnes of waste annually, and only about 10% is recycled. According to the Dubai Carbon Abatement Strategy, the capital city of UAE’s economy produces around 42 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, making it one of the highest per capita emitters in the world. In light of these statistics, it is clear that sustainability and eco-friendliness are crucial for Dubai’s future.
The city has recognized this need and has taken several initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, conserve water, and promote renewable energy, such as the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030. In the last five years, Dubai has made significant efforts to contribute to the cause of sustainability. You can do that too with these tips for a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.
Eat Less Meat
Reducing meat consumption is a crucial aspect of an eco-friendly lifestyle, as meat production and consumption contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By eating less meat, individuals can reduce their carbon footprint, conserve water resources, and prevent deforestation, as the livestock industry is a leading cause of forest clearance.
Additionally, cutting back on meat can improve personal health, as high-meat diets have been linked to heart disease and cancer. Incorporating plant-based meals and reducing meat intake can promote sustainability, protect the environment, and contribute to better health.
Choose Cloth Over Paper or Plastic
Choosing cloth over paper products like towels over tissues and cloth bags or tote bags over plastic bags can help you live an environmentally friendly lifestyle by reducing waste, saving resources, avoiding harmful chemicals, and supporting sustainable practices. Cloth products can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or incinerated.
Cloth products also help conserve energy and natural resources, save money, and avoid harmful chemicals that are present in many paper products. Additionally, choosing cloth products supports encourages handicrafts and artisans who make personalized cloth bags or towels on request. They can make your order from fresh fabric or even turn unused shawls and scarves into adorable towels and bags. Many shops and supermarkets have switched from plastic carry bags to paper or cloth bags.
Turn Your Appliances Off
To live a more sustainable lifestyle, turning off your appliances when not in use can have several benefits. First, appliances use energy even when not in use, which can add up to a significant amount of energy waste over time.
Turning them off can help save energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and mitigate climate change. Second, it can lower your energy bills, as appliances on standby mode can consume a lot of energy. Third, turning off appliances when not in use can extend their lifespan, as appliances left on all the time can wear out faster. Lastly, it promotes sustainable practices, raising awareness about energy conservation and inspiring others to reduce their carbon footprint.
Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
The 3 R’s – reduce, reuse, recycle – guide environmentally conscious individuals. To reduce waste, consider bulk buying or adjusting shopping habits. Recycling is easily accessible with nearby centers, but check which items they accept. Reusing items can also make an impact; for example, clean glass jars can be used to pack a picnic lunch. Installing a home water filtration system or cooler can reduce single-use plastic bottle waste.
Public Transport
Take advantage of Dubai’s extensive public transportation system, including buses and the metro. One of the highlights of public transportation in Dubai is the Palm Monorail, which allows you to explore the sights and activities of Palm Jumeirah without needing a car. Using the monorail provides an excellent view of the area while easily taking you to various points of interest. With so much to see and do in Palm Jumeirah, it would be a shame to navigate it by car when you can use the tramway for a more enjoyable experience.
Those are the five simple ways to live a green life. This is how you can do your bit to save and nurture the planet. Act now because we have only one Earth!