maanantai 8. helmikuuta 2021

Student Essays: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle / Sustainable Travelling

Reduce, reuse, recycle

Many people are making real efforts to take better care of our planet. There are a number of ways to manage waste, for example. Write an essay where you consider different ways of reducing, reusing and recycling. Discuss what can be done on an individual, national and international level.


Tinja, 18

To start off with, we only have this planet and that is the reason we need to take care of it and we need to assure that Earth will be habitable for future generations. We all are responsible and we can all do something.

There are many ways to take care of our planet. For example, as an individual we could reduce the amount of waste we produce by thinking about what we buy, and whether there are better options for that particular product. Instead of buying one-time-use products, we could buy a similar product that is reusable or that can be used for something else. If you have items you do not use, you can always give them to someone else. If you need something, for instance a bike, you could see if someone else is selling their bike instead of buying a brand new one.

On a national level we could concentrate on producing locally and only for need. Moreover, it is not only reducing the amount of pollution that comes from producing and transporting but it also creates work for the citizens. On national level we could also create stricter rules that everyone must follow.

Similarly, on an international level we could make contracts, but everyone would have to commit for doing it. Also, in both, national and international levels we could start making products from more recyclable materials.

All in all, we all are in this together and we must all do our part.



Henna, 18

Hello my dear reader and thank you for your question!

Sometimes the way to start your zero-waste-lifestyle can be quite hard, but believe me – when you start it and get used to it, it will be very easy! Some people say that they can’t reduce their waste because they don’t live on their own and therefore, they can’t make the decisions in the house – but they are wrong! Everyone can make a change in their own choices and by doing small changes in everyday life, they can inspire others to do the same.

I will give you a few simple tips to reduce waste and I hope they will help you.

First, start using reusable bottles if you go outside. They are easy to carry, and you will reduce waste and save your money.

Buy second-hand items and recycle your old clothes. I, for example, give all my old clothes to charity or to my nephew. Usually I use my clothes as long as I can, and I do not buy clothes that I don’t need – that is a good way too to help the environment and reduce waste.

Try to teach to your parents something about recycling. Maybe you can get them to separate plastic and metals – start from the little things. Composting some of your waste can also be a good way to start and it too can help you save your money!

I hope these tips were useful to you. It is good that such young people as you care about the environment and want to reduce waste – you are the future!

x


Roosa, 18 

Sustainable travel

Traveling and the memories we gain from it are important to many of us. However, most of the time people don’t think about the effects our environment has to face because of it. With climate change being a current issue, we have to make a change in our behaviour. So, what can you do to make your trip more sustainable?

To get to your destination, prefer taking a bus or a train, rather than flying. If you need to move around the city, you can rent a bike or walk. This way you can avoid taking the bus and it’s a great way to get to know the city better. If the walking distance is too long, try to use public transportation, instead of taxis.

When it comes to eating, prefer dining at restaurants with vegan options. For example, red meat takes a toll on the environment, so it’s better to stay away from it. You can buy your souvenirs from small local boutiques instead of big corporate businesses.

Small changes in your actions can already be a good start. Sustainable travel just takes a bit of planning. Be a good citizen and make a difference.