7 actions to take to respond to the global emergency

Living in a time when the planet emergency is at the heart of concerns offers us the opportunity to all act at our level for a significant impact. Whether it's governments, businesses, communities, or citizens, together, we actually have the power to shape a more sustainable world. So, in the face of environmental challenges such as the increase in greenhouse gases, climate change or the decline in biodiversity, let's discover 7 essential actions to take that will pave the way for a greener and more resilient planet.

1- The essential transition to renewable energies

Ending fossil fuels

The time has come to say no to fossil fuels! We can strive for a clean and sustainable energy future by supporting the transition to renewable energies and by gradually moving away from fossil fuels. Investing in solar, wind, hydraulic and geothermal energy means encouraging the development of eco-responsible solutions and innovative technologies that are better for the climate. And all of these energy sources limit our greenhouse gas emissions, which are responsible for global warming.

Opt for competitive energies

Are you still not convinced by renewable energies? Do you think they are much less efficient than nuclear energy for example? You should know that solar and wind energies are now fully competitive compared to fossil energy production. In addition, their cost has fallen significantly in the last 10 years depending The 6th IPCC report.

However, the deployment of these electricity sources is not yet sufficient to hope to achieve carbon neutrality in 2050. It is therefore time to mobilize collectively, right now, to meet this imperative.

What actions should be taken for the global emergency?

As a committed citizen, several actions are possible. We can choose for example an energy supplier using renewable sources or install solar panels at home. In addition, we can invest in a sustainable energy project (wind farms, solar installations, etc.) individually or through participatory investment platforms. Every action counts. And all of them contribute to creating a positive impulse on our planet! However, it is important to support citizen engagement! States, businesses and communities must take effective measures and take the path of decarbonization.

2- Support energy sobriety
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But that is not all. In parallel with the development of renewable energies, energy efficiency must also be ensured. And we can all contribute, whether we are individuals or businesses, individually or collectively. It is about consuming less energy while maintaining a level of comfort and a satisfactory quality of life.. Here are some examples that can inspire you and respond to the global emergency:

• You can get started in the renovation of your home : change of windows, insulation of walls and roof. It will be hotter in winter and cooler in summer, all while consuming less. The French state has put in place several financial incentives to encourage you to do so.
• In addition, you can choose more energy efficient devices, LED bulbs, etc. The installation of programmable thermostats also makes it possible to adjust the temperature of your home to your needs and to have an impact on your consumption.
• In order to reduce your carbon footprint, avoid using a private car. Instead, opt for sustainable means of transport such as cycling, walking, public transport, or even carpooling.

Of course, concrete political measures must also be put in place in order to support every action leading to sobriety. These combined actions are creating a greener and more prosperous future.

3- For responsible agriculture and food
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Our intensive agricultural models are running out of steam. Our food models are inadequate to current challenges, in France, and in many countries. Greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, biodiversity decline, water pollution, etc. They are the cause of a lot of ills. We need to act across the entire value chain in order to preserve the planet's natural resources while feeding its inhabitants. There is an emergency! We have the power to transform our food system to make it more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

In order to preserve biodiversity and revitalize soils, we must promote environmentally friendly methods, sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices. We are all concerned and involved! Farmers and ranchers must become aware of their key role and be supported in the agroecological transition. Agri-food companies are required to change their practices. The consumers need to reconsider their eating habits. We must reduce the use of chemical products in our fields and gardens and contribute to agriculture that nourishes the planet while protecting it.

At LIFE, we support local populations in several countries in their transition to agriculture that respects nature and benefits their community. Thanks to the project Sapousse, we are multiplying the projects ofagroforestry that allow them to create sustainable, productive and planet-friendly agricultural systems. Thanks to them, they are reforesting their territories, becoming aware of the need to preserve their environment, while developing livelihoods.

Rethink your eating habits

Meat production is the source of a large portion of greenhouse gas emissions in the world and therefore global warming. Limiting its consumption, favoring sustainable farms, and increasing the consumption of vegetable proteins are positive actions for the planet. Are you still in doubt about the impact of such practices? The IPCC confirms that turning to diets rich in vegetable proteins and low in meat and dairy products, allows a big reduction in GHG emissions.

4- Turning to a circular economic model
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All together, to respond to the global emergency, we must support the transition to a circular economic model. Waste is reduced, sorted and recycled. The resources are preserved there. The goods and services produced and purchased are designed there in a sustainable manner. But that's not all! Objects find a second life there.. The repairable is fixed. Second-hand trade is preferred. Businesses are also key players in building a sustainable future. They can incorporate sustainable practices, reduce their carbon footprint, and report on their commitment to the planet. In this way, they demonstrate that economic prosperity can harmoniously coexist with environmental protection. For their part, states must legislate to support the movement. In France, we can cite in this field The Energy Transition Law for Green Growth adopted in 2015. This transformation towards a circular model is a collective adventure towards a future that is more sustainable and respectful of our planet.

5- Educate, raise awareness about nature and the environment
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Education is the driver of change. Parents, teachers, educational programs must focus on environmental awareness, on the concept of carbon footprint, on the impact of individual actions. At the state level, public awareness campaigns should also be put in place. They are there to mobilize society and encourage the development of practices that respect the environment. Together, we are shaping a generation that is aware and committed to a green future.

6- International cooperation in the face of the global emergency
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The global emergency knows no borders. Strong international collaboration is essential to be able to meet global challenges such as climate change. Financial investments are still insufficient. Binding international agreements are needed to coordinate efforts and share resources. France is actively involved in this. For example, she launched the Ocean Initiative at COP23. It also plays a key role in international climate negotiations (COP, Paris Agreement, etc.).

7- Protect and repair nature
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The wonders of our planet such as oceans, forests, wetlands play a crucial role in regulating the climate and protecting biodiversity. It is essential to preserve these sensitive areas. It goes through the multiplication of protected areas, the supervision of fishing, the fight against deforestation, and the restoration of degraded ecosystems. Each of us is the guardian of this treasure, and it is our duty to preserve it for future generations.

By implementing one or all of these actions, you become a determined and indispensable actor in the face of the global emergency, in the face of global climate challenges. Each of these actions, whether at the individual or collective level, has a positive impact on our environment. They all contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. From every corner of our planet, we can join forces towards shared sustainability goals, creating a greener and brighter future for all.

Join us and together, let's contribute to a greener and more resilient planet.