The best way to protect the environment is for everyone to work together to limit global warming.
National leaders will need to carry out the main course of action, by introducing strict policies to limit warming to well below 2, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels. But everyday people can take small actions in their daily lives to live more sustainably and help defend the planet for future generations.
When it comes to eco-friendly living, it can be hard to know where to start.
Luckily, social and mainstream media is abound with sustainability influencers, who preach that progress is better than perfection while offering top tips to live a single-use plastic-free lifestyle and ease eco-anxiety. Check out these social profiles from some of Australia’s key influencers committed to addressing inequalities in the climate space and advocating for the protection of both people and the planet.
1. Veronica Milsom
Comedian and actress Milson has arguably Australia’s best advice on limiting the additional waste footprint that comes with having children. In her podcast Zero Waste Baby, Milsom discusses alternatives to disposable products, how to feed babies using less plastic and accepting imperfect zero-waste living.
2. Charlee Fraser
Fraser is a proud Awabakal woman, model and one of the nation’s loudest voices for sustainability and inclusiveness in the fashion industry. In 2019, Fraser won Model of the Year title at the Australian Fashion Laureate Awards, which represents the industry’s progress towards greater diversity and representation.
3. Laura Wells
Wells is one of Australia’s top plus-size models and a marine biologist. On her page, you’ll find facts about ocean acidification, information about environmental organisations she’s partnering with and giveaways for her favourite reusable and recycled products. You can also catch Wells on Survivor Australia, a show she joined to “spread [her] environmental messages to a completely new platform.”
4. Anita Vandyke
As a rocket scientist, doctor and author of Zero Waste Life, Vandyke is clearly a master of many fields. Born in China and raised in Australia, Vandyke regularly blogs and posts on her Instagram about zero waste alternatives to everyday products, the power of minimalism and tips for simplifying your routine.
5. Joshua Katcher
Katcher is the author of Fashion Animals, which explores how and why animals are exploited in the fashion industry, and the creator of The Discerning Brute website, the world's first men’s vegan lifestyle platform. Alongside speaking about quitting fast fashion and alternatives to wool and leather, Katcher has also launched his own vegan menswear label, Brave GentleMan.