Did you know just two years ago, the last male northern white rhino died? This is a sad reminder of what can happen when we do not take care of our environment and its endangered species. Even a simple thing like you don’t use biodegradable garbage bags can harm their habitats. But there is still hope, as new technologies and conservation methods are being developed to help protect endangered species around the world.
In fact, since 2000, more than 25 species of plants and animals have been brought back from the brink of extinction. This is thanks to active conservation efforts, including habitat protection and wildlife management. Now you may be thinking on how you can take action and make a difference as a student. Lucky for you, we can all help make a difference for wildlife. By making small changes in our daily routines, we can support wildlife conservation. Read on to learn some simple ways you can help.
Single-use plastic grocery bags are a huge source of pollution and litter in our environment, and they often end up in the ocean, where they can harm wildlife. Bringing your own reusable shopping bag to the store helps reduce plastic waste and keep our oceans clean. Do you still remember a photograph and news showing a giant sea turtle with a plastic straw stuck in its nostril? So bringing your own reusable bags can be an excellent start.
When you go out for dinner or buy seafood from the store, make sure to opt for sustainable seafood choices. Look for the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) label to ensure that what you’re buying is caught or farmed in a way that is environmentally friendly and sustainable for future generations. In some restaurants, shark fins, sea turtle meat, and other endangered species may be served as delicacies. Try to avoid these dishes if possible; not only are they illegal in many countries, but their consumption can have a detrimental effect on endangered wildlife populations.
Palm oil is used in many food products, cosmetics, and cleaning supplies. However, the production of palm oil destroys wildlife habitats, leading to a decrease in animal populations. In Indonesia and Malaysia, where most of the world’s palm oil is produced, many orangutans are killed each year to make room for palm plantations. Before you buy anything containing palm oil, check the ingredients list to ensure that it’s been sustainably sourced. Support companies that don’t use palm oil and encourage them to switch to sustainable sources.
There are many more ways to make a difference for endangered species and our environment. Start small by making conscious decisions about what you buy, how much waste you produce, and how you use energy. Every little bit helps. We all have the capacity to make positive impacts on the planet – it just takes a bit of effort and awareness. So let’s do our part to help save endangered species and our environment.