Hyderabad: The solution to climate change lies in the changes we make to our day-to-day lives, said historian and environmentalist, Urvi Desai, on Friday.
"No matter how optimistic we are about achieving zero waste, it will remain unattainable unless each one of us alters our lifestyle choices—what we use, eat, and wear—because everything has a larger environmental impact," she said while speaking on ‘Climate Action in Everyday Life' at the Manthan Samvaad, an event held in the city to discuss issues of public relevance.
Addressing the gathering at the same event, Shreyas Sridharan, an entrepreneur and environmentalist, spoke about practical ways to avoid leaving ecological footprints by focusing on the idea of "reducing". "Reduce everything—consumption, waste, buying new clothes, using packaged food, and even unnecessary travel. Seek alternatives," he said, adding, "For instance, instead of driving your own car, use public transport like buses or the metro, or try carpooling. Avoid buying new clothes—borrow or share instead. Once clothes are old, wear them at home. When they can no longer be worn, repurpose them for household tasks like mopping or cleaning surfaces."
Desai also emphasised the environmental impact of food delivery. "While convenience is appealing, it comes at an environmental cost. The plastic in packaging, tissues, disposable cutlery, and the fuel consumed for delivery all add to carbon emissions. Instead, one could visit restaurants or enjoy food from roadside stalls," she said.
Both experts emphasised on how small but intentional changes in daily lives can collectively help in combating climate change.