Climate change is an unavoidable truth yet we find ourselves in a space of climate action inertia. Regardless of the numerous conventions, panel discussions, and summits, we still are far from doing what needs to be done. Over the past two years, we’ve emitted more than 80 gigatonnes of CO2 while the world has faced a wide spectrum of natural disasters: flooding, wildfires, hurricanes, and windstorms. Climate activist Greta Thunberg, the teen who launched a thousand strikes, asserts that we are still in a state of climate crisis denial and losing out on crucial time.

While political inaction cripples the fight, it is upon us to make things right (or as better as they can be). Decades of mindless consumption has played a key role in getting us where we are today.

As people become environmentally conscious and seek ways to reduce waste, there is a unique opportunity to change practices and processes. If how we spend our money is how we shape the world, then what we consume is at the centre of it.

We spoke to Gen Z sustainable lifestyle advocate and organic farming practitioner, Anya Gupta on why consuming consciously is the need of the hour. “We’re consuming things faster than ever, and faster consumption means faster filling up of landfills and dumping waste in our oceans. Without adequate waste disposal and segregation systems, we’re headed towards a waste catastrophe. As citizens of the Earth, each one of us needs to take responsibility and accountability for our consumption habits. Although reducing consumption should be prioritised, we must also consume mindfully whenever we do - paying attention to raw materials, packaging, and the afterlife of products.”

Following a sustainable lifestyle doesn’t need to be complicated. Breaking old habits might take a little bit of commitment, but making these simple changes is worth the effort. If there ever was a time to take mindful action, it is now. “You don’t need to stuff a year’s worth of trash in a mason jar. You don’t have to purchase every new zero-waste product out there. Making sustainable swaps is best done at your own pace and through small steps. Sustainability is all about doing your best to work with nature, not against it.”, Anya said.