Scientists predict that we are on the verge of the Sixth Mass Extinction, which is a global event when of the Earth's species perish. Many scientists feel that human activity is the cause of the increasing rate of extinctions. If you want to help, you have lots of things big and small to do. Adopt a more environmentally conscious, politically involved lifestyle and volunteer to help others.
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Method 1 of 3: Changing Your Lifestyle
Step 1. Pay attention to the products used
If you want to contribute to reducing animal extinction rates, don't use products that harm the environment. Many companies extract food and other resources in ways that damage the species' habitat environment.
- Look for products made from recycled materials. Often these products are marked with green arrows forming a circle. You can also find information on product labels to find out how much of a product is made from recycled materials.
- If you wear makeup, choose the appropriate product. Many well-known cosmetic companies implement animal testing and other environmentally conscious practices, such as Olay and Garnier, which do so on a regular basis. Read the labels on cosmetics, shampoos, and conditioners to make sure they are not subject to animal testing.
- Many products use palm oil. This oil is used in food, cosmetics, and soap. Many tropical forests are being cleared to create oil palm plantations. If the product contains palm oil on the label of the product purchased, make sure the company harvests the oil in a sustainable way. You can find a list of companies that support the practice of ethically harvesting palm oil on the website of the Union of Concerned Scientists.
Step 2. Try not to buy products made from endangered species
You are prohibited from buying products made from rare or endangered animals. Many people like to bring souvenirs after a trip. However, many of these souvenirs are made from rare animals. Stay away from products made of ivory, turtle shells, and coral. You should also stay away from products made from tiger fur or other rare animals.
Step 3. Buy local food
Many of the agricultural practices adopted by food companies are harmful to the environment and endangered species. If you want to help protect the environment, buy local food. Look for grocery stores that buy direct from local farmers as well as traditional markets in town. Smallholders usually do not harm the environment and practice more ethical and sustainable agricultural practices.
Step 4. Save energy
Reduce your overall carbon footprint to help preserve the environment. This can protect the habitat and the preservation of various endangered species. Sometimes, small changes can have a big impact on the amount of energy and fossil fuels that households use.
- Replace the light bulb. Switch to compact fluorescent lamps, which can be purchased at most supermarkets. This type of light bulb uses far less fossil fuel than conventional light bulbs.
- Unplug electronic devices when not in use. Even when the product is not in use, the power from the wall outlet remains in use when the cord is still plugged in. Be sure to unplug kitchen appliances, such as coffee makers and toasters, when not in use. It's also a good idea to unplug your laptop and cell phone chargers when you're not using them.
- Lower the thermostat temperature by two degrees. Chances are, you won't feel this slight temperature change, but the energy saved is significant. You will also reduce your electricity bill.
Step 5. Reduce meat consumption
The meat industry has a huge impact on the environment by destroying the viability of endangered animals. Tropical rainforests, which are home to many endangered animals, are often cleared to make land for factories. You can help by switching to plant-based foods.
- A vegetarian diet means that you do not consume products from animal meat. Other animal products such as eggs, butter, milk and cheese are acceptable but you should stay away from chicken or beef. Protein in a vegetarian diet can be sourced from nuts, legumes, eggs, and cheese.
- A vegan diet does not include all animal products, including cheese and eggs. Many people are becoming vegan because some breeders who produce non-meat animal products still practice environmentally harmful practices. As a vegan, your protein comes from chickpeas, nuts and seeds.
- Before switching to a vegetarian or vegan diet, it's best to talk to your doctor first. Vegans, in particular, must take certain vitamins to ensure the body gets the nutrients it needs because they don't eat animal products at all.
- If the commitment to being a vegetarian or vegan is too burdensome, eat enough meat. In addition to helping preserve the environment, reducing meat consumption is also good for your health. You can have 1-2 nights a week to try vegan or vegetarian food. You can also try eating meat only once a day.
Step 6. Recycle and buy sustainable products
You should try to recycle products such as cans, cardboard, and plastic. You should also switch to reusable products. For example, use a washcloth instead of a tissue, and don't buy products that aren't made from biodegradable materials.
Method 2 of 3: Get Involved
Step 1. Spend time with nature
The best way to help endangered species is to protect their environment. Spend some time with nature by visiting or volunteering at a local wildlife sanctuary. This organization is always in need of donations and volunteers because it is often short on funds.
- You've helped enough just by visiting a nature protection foundation. You can donate at the entrance, and learn about endangered animals and the importance of protecting the environment so you can educate those closest to you. The more people involved in protecting endangered animals, the better.
- You can also volunteer. Wildlife sanctuaries often don't have big budgets and so rely heavily on volunteers to keep them operational. The next time you visit a wildlife sanctuary, ask about volunteer work.
Step 2. Create a wildlife-friendly home
Strive to make a home that is environmentally friendly. This can help save endangered species in your area.
- If you have pets, supervise them when outdoors. Don't leave your cat or dog outside overnight as they can fight and even kill birds, rodents, and other animals in your environment.
- Dispose of trash in cans or buckets with locks. Do not let wild animals accidentally eat toxic substances from garbage.
- If you have a garden, be environmentally conscious. Avoid excessive use of herbicides or pesticides. Choose organic pesticides instead of products made from synthetic chemicals.
Step 3. Select representatives of the people who support environmental sustainability
The biggest problem in protecting wild animals is keeping their habitat safe. When choosing the next people's representative, do it wisely. Support candidates running platforms to support environmental protection.
- Look for candidates who want to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and support more efficient livestock practices. Pay attention to the voting history of candidates related to environmental issues. Vote for candidates who are consistently trying to improve your country's environment.
- Overpopulation of humans is a major cause of environmental damage. Therefore, look for candidates who support education and health care for women around the world. Women who have access to contraception are less likely to experience an unexpected or expected pregnancy. Educating and caring for women's health around the world can cut back on overpopulation and help preserve the environment.
Step 4. Join the organization
You can also get politically involved by joining organizations dedicated to animal rights and sustainability. Greenpeace, PETA, and the National Wildlife Foundation are some of the international organizations that have come forward politically to protect endangered animals. You can help this organization simply by becoming a member, and donating a little once a year. However, you can also donate your time and effort. If you want to help endangered species, try direct action. Look for local branches of organizations dedicated to animal rights and sustainability. Look for opportunities to get involved.
Method 3 of 3: Educate Others
Step 1. Take advantage of social media
Knowledge is a powerful tool if you are to help endangered animal species. Use social media to educate friends and family members. When people understand the importance of acting quickly, they will be more willing to help.
- Post relevant articles on social media sites. It's a good idea to share news stories and stories that cover facts and a list of abstracts for how-to instructions. For example, you could post a list of small changes you can take to reduce your carbon footprint. You can also share recipes and articles, as well as how to make your favorite vegetarian or vegan meal.
- Encourage others to sign the petition. Online petitions do not immediately lead to immediate action, but they can raise awareness about the issue. If politicians, other leaders, and companies see how many people care, they will pay more attention.
- Encourage others to vote for representatives who support animal welfare laws and environmental practices ahead of the election. If enough people express their concerns, you can make a real impact in the election.
Step 2. Talk to family members and friends
Express your concerns with others. Education can be a powerful tool for changing society. You don't have to be wise or sarcastic about others. However, you can suggest small changes when the opportunity arises. For example, invite coworkers to use the carpool to work. Alluding to the positive impacts that can help preserve the environment.
Step 3. Volunteer work for organizations that raise public awareness
Some of the organizations mentioned above often hold campaigns. You can donate time to maintain a booth at an event or hand out flyers.
