We’ve seen several cases of climate activists at home and abroad trying so hard to make a difference in the world using their resources and voices toward climate action. These actions and many more if reciprocated by every individual would bring about a pivotal change in the environment today.

As a Nigerian living in Nigeria, you might wonder, How can I help? Would my efforts even amount to any positive change? Consider the following steps below that you can follow to reduce the impact of climate change and improve the environment:

1. Reduce, reuse, and recycle: Start by reducing the amount of waste you generate. Reuse items such as plastic bags, bottles, and containers. Recycling paper, plastic, cans, and glass products reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. There are several recycling companies in Nigeria. The #TidyNigeriaRecyclingDrive is one Recycling Program sponsored by The Coca-Cola Foundation that would help you #recycle your plastics in exchange for cash.

2. Use energy-efficient appliances: Switch to energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs. Use natural light as much as possible and turn off lights when not in use.

3. Plant trees: Trees absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, so planting trees can help to offset the carbon emissions that contribute to climate change. Be an advocate for the trees in your neighborhood, especially indigenous trees. Always encourage your friends, families, and your community members to plant trees.

4. Use public transportation or walk/bike: Consider using public transportation, carpooling, walking for short distances, or biking to reduce your carbon footprint as much as possible.

5. Conserve water: Fix leaks, take shorter showers, and turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving. Water conservation can reduce the energy required to pump, treat, and distribute water.

6. Use renewable energy: Consider installing solar panels or wind turbines to generate electricity for your home or business. Solar panels are now getting common in this part of the world. Can you make it a goal to switch to solar to reduce noise pollution in your home?

7. Buy local: Buy locally grown food and products to support the local farmers and economy to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods long distances.

8. Grow your food: Sustainable gardening at home can reduce your carbon footprint by saving the energy required to go long distances to purchase food. Planting/nurturing a garden at home or in school can also put kitchen waste/compost to good use. Check out the @ecoschoolsng page to see how schools support students’ #GrowYourFoodAtHome Without Chemicals Campaign.

By adopting these habits, you can make a difference in Nigeria’s environment and contribute to investing in a greener and healthier planet individually and as a group. Share this with someone today.