Opinion: Time for climate action

Polar bear, off Barents Island, in Svalbard ny Arne Naevra was runner-up in the One Earth category. 
Shell Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2007 Competition.

Polar bear, off Barents Island, in Svalbard ny Arne Naevra was runner-up in the One Earth category. Shell Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2007 Competition.

Emma Dowker, Photography Editor

The vast majority of climate scientists are in agreement that climate change is real, irreversible, and caused by humans. While a minority of people still debate it, it is time for people to begin taking action.
Living a sustainable lifestyle is not challenging or inconvenient, but one has to want to do it.
There are a few simple things that people can do to help. First, stop buying packaged bottles of water, and instead opt for a reusable water bottle to reduce landfill volume. At the grocery store, bring fabric bags to carry food home, rather than relying on the plastic bags from the store.
Those who are willing to take bigger steps could consider making gradual changes in their diets. Replacing some animal products with more fruits and vegetables can make a big difference. Raising livestock requires a lot of water, not only for the animals themselves but also to grow the crops they eat. The factories that process those animals also require a lot of energy.
While not everyone may be able or willing to completely overhaul their lifestyles, there are plenty of smaller changes that people can make to help save the planet.