We are the only creatures in the history of our planet that creates ‘rubbish’. It’s a human thing. In nature, there is no such thing as rubbish. Animals use what they no longer need for different purposes. Australians use 4 billion plastic bags a year and we have one of the highest rates of tree clearing in any developed country. If each individual follows the 5 Rs - RETHINK, REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE, RESPECT, we can start by changing our everyday lifestyle in small ways to make a big impact.
• Say no to plastic bags – BYO reusable bags
• Reduce your energy use
• Refill your own drink bottle, bring own cutlery, straws
• Get a compost bin – reduce food waste
• Plant trees to purify the air/provide homes for animals affected by deforestation
• Donate to conservations protecting endangered animals
As Miss Earth Australia 2018, I wish to educate children about plastic and food waste by visiting schools, team up with groups at university to approach businesses in making environmentally friendly choices (go plastic free, use alternatives), volunteer at wildlife parks, host charity events to promote awareness and encourage the local community to get involved in various activities such as clean up days and markets where trash can be repurposed into treasure.