How many of our new year resolutions still remain intact at the end of January? Easy to know what we should, or need to do, but when it comes to the doing it is a different story.
National and international resolutions concerning climate change, preservation of wildlife and biodiverse habitats, are not so easy to agree, given the number of interested parties. The compromise resolutions that are agreed rarely satisfy the known needs. Yet the needs, such as reduction of greenhouse gases, preservation of wetlands, conservation of rain forests, are clear. Failure to meet them is known to be life threatening on a global scale. And yet . . . .
It is notoriously difficult to quit smoking however much an addict may want to, however well it is understood to be unhealthy, even life threatening. Similarly many of us in the developed world are addicted to a lifestyle which is harmful to the planet. We know the consequences will be devastating, but to give up our damaging way of life, though we are aware it is necessary, seems beyond us. Maybe there is the feeling that the devastation won’t happen just yet, or it will only affect other parts of the world. False comfort. Or we feel that any change we make will be insignificant. But if many people do make changes, they will be significant. So everyone should and can make and keep resolutions to change, trusting they will make a difference. So the challenge is to adopt a way of life that is planet friendly. There are many options such as reducing energy demands, recycling and minimising waste.
Just one example: in the UK 4.5 million tons of edible food is thrown away each year. By buying only what is needed, preparing adequate portions (see lovefoodhatewaste.com) and making sensible use of fridges and freezers not only saves waste, but also money. A win win situation.
The work party met on 8th December. The planned work on 7th January at Chantry Hill to clear scrub from this valuable chalk grassland site had to be cancelled due to the weather.
On 6th February we meet at 10.00m at Dyke Farm to plant more shrubs and trees to improve biodiversity there. As usual, allcomers welcome – share transport where possible.
For information about this and our other activities, or on becoming a member, (no subscription is required, donations welcome) please get in touch with Chairman Mick Denness on 01903 745971 or see our website. www.storringtonconservation.org.uk/. To all our readers we wish a peaceful and green 2023.
Submitted to the Storrington Community Website using the News Item contact form.