From Consumption to Contentment: Embracing Sustainable Living for a Brighter Tomorrow
Humans Lived Sustainably for Most of Human History
300,000 years. That is how long humankind lived sustainably – never taking more resources than the planet could replenish or causing irreparable damage. It was an time when we had a deep connection to nature and a profound understanding of our dependence on it. Activities such as tree cutting were carried out by hand, requiring significant time and energy. When farming the land, communities could only cultivate as much as a family with a horse could manage. Daily commuting was limited to distances that a horse and carriage could cover. And anything we discarded would naturally biodegrade within a few months.
But then, 150 years ago, something significant occurred that changed the course of human history and transformed our relationship with the planet. This event set the stage for an unsustainable trajectory and the exploitation of resources on an unprecedented scale.
What Changed?
Any ideas what it is?
The turning point was the widespread adoption of fossil fuels.
With the discovery and use of fossil fuels, particularly the invention of the engine, humankind gained the ability to accomplish feats never before imaginable. The newfound ability to lift heavy loads revolutionized construction, allowing us to erect larger and taller structures than ever before. Fossil fuels fueled the rise of massive factories capable of producing vast quantities of goods, often surpassing our actual needs.
Transportation
Transportation also underwent a radical transformation. The invention of vehicles powered by fossil fuels made long-distance commuting accessible to everyone. People now traverse great distances effortlessly, enabling urbanization and suburban sprawl. The world became smaller as travel times shrank, but few considered the environmental consequences of this newfound mobility.
Plastics
The shift towards a fossil fuel-dependent society gave rise to the production of long-lasting, non-biodegradable objects. Plastics, for instance, became ubiquitous, finding their way into every aspect of everyday life. Unlike natural materials, these objects persist indefinitely (at least on human time scales), accumulating in our environment and posing significant challenges for waste management. What do we do with garbage that doesn’t disappear?
Mass Resource Extraction
This rapid transition from sustainable to unsustainable practices has had profound implications for the planet. The extraction and burning of fossil fuels release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to global climate change, which then leads to more severe weather, flooding, forest fires, water shortages, and much more. The unprecedented scale of resource extraction has led to deforestation, habitat destruction, and biodiversity loss, causing irreversible harm to ecosystems.
The Consequences of Our Actions Today – And How We Fix Them
The consequences of our unsustainable lifestyle are becoming increasingly apparent. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and the depletion of vital resources serve as reminders of the urgent need to reassess our relationship with the planet. Naturally, we are always eager to solve our problems with technology, and some problems can be solved or reduced through technology, but as we confront the challenges of the present, it is vital that we also draw upon the wisdom of our sustainable past to forge a path towards a more balanced future.
Reversing the damage caused over the past 150 years requires transformative change – we need to reduce our need for resources (from energy to raw materials), transition to renewable energy sources for whatever energy needs still remain, adopt circular economies that prioritize resource efficiency, reuse, and recycling, and embrace sustainable practices in agriculture, transportation, and manufacturing. These are critical steps toward a more sustainable future. By reestablishing a balance with nature, we can hope to reclaim the longevity and resilience that characterized our early years as a species.
Individual vs Systemic Change
As I write this, I can already imagine what most are thinking: these are large-scale changes that need to happen at the level of governments and industries. And while it is necessary to have participation from governments and industries, it is rare that change starts with them. Change starts with the people. Change starts with us. And demanding sustainability from governments and industries while we continue to live among the most unsustainable people in the world seems hypocritical at best. This means that while we should absolutely be voting, engaging with politicians and companies, and demonstrating for systemic change, we can’t demand sustainability from others when we aren’t living sustainably ourselves.
When it comes to personal sustainability and a reduction in use of resources and energy, people assume I mean a return to lifestyle circa 200 years ago. But embracing sustainability does not mean a regression to the Stone Age or a sacrifice of all modern comforts. On the contrary, it presents an opportunity to redefine our values and discover a life that is more fulfilling and in harmony with nature. By making conscious choices that benefit both ourselves and the planet, we can cultivate a sense of happiness and well-being. This doesn’t mean the elimination of technology or comfort in your life, farming all your own food, and never watching TV or movies ever again. But it does mean finding a healthier relationship with activities that are heavily polluting and a reduction of excess.
Living Personally Sustainably, Some Examples
Reducing Meat Consumption
Take, for instance, the decision to reduce meat consumption. Not only does consuming less meat reduce the environmental impact of animal agriculture, but it is also greatly beneficial for our health. Livestock production is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. There’s no need for everyone to go vegan, but by adopting more plants into our diet, we not only support our own well-being but also contribute to the preservation of natural resources and the reduction of our ecological footprint.
Biking Over Driving
Similarly, choosing to bike more instead of relying solely on cars has multiple advantages. While cycling may take longer to reach our destinations, it allows us to engage with our surroundings, connect with our communities, and enjoy the benefits of physical exercise. By opting for sustainable transportation methods, we decrease air pollution, alleviate traffic congestion, and enhance our personal well-being. For many, I understand that this isn’t a viable option for your city and living situation, but for the cities that have been able to implement more biking infrastructure and redesign their cities for people instead of cars, they have seen incredible improvements in health and safety and enjoyment of those cities, which only encourages more redevelopment for people in more cities.
Doing More With Less
Furthermore, adopting a mindset of mindful consumption can lead to a decluttered home, financial savings, and reduced pollution. By reevaluating our purchasing habits and only acquiring things that genuinely matter to us, we free ourselves from the burden of excessive material possessions. Simultaneously, we contribute to minimizing the environmental impact associated with the production, transportation, and disposal of unnecessary goods. This conscious approach not only helps us find contentment in simplicity but also aligns with the principles of sustainable living.
These are just a few examples that I hope illustrate the ideas behind sustainability. Each of us must find our own solutions for our own lives, and find joy in confronting the challenges of eliminating pollution, which harms other people, animals, and the environment in a very direct and real way (Sidenote – personally, driving has become much more conflicted for me since I learned that over 6 million people die per year just from breathing the air and the pollutants in it, from which a large portion comes from transportation).
Conclusion
In essence, living sustainably is not a restrictive or burdensome choice. It is an invitation to embrace a lifestyle that promotes personal well-being, strengthens our connection with nature, and safeguards the planet for future generations. By making small, intentional changes in our daily lives, we can create a ripple effect of positive change and inspire others to embark on a similar journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling existence.
In the face of mounting environmental crises, the choice is ours. Will we continue down the path of unsustainability, risking irreparable damage to the planet and future generations? Or will we rediscover the wisdom of our sustainable ancestors and forge a new narrative that prioritizes the well-being of both humanity and the Earth? The time to act is now. Join the sustainable movement. Embrace change for the better. Learn to live environmentally conscious.
