Small and practical solutions we can take up to mitigate climate change

As Fijians, we need to seriously consider what we can do to mitigate the effects of climate change. And it’s the small practical things which count. Like turning off the power, car-pooling, saving water, staying off the mobile and spending quality time with family.

Members of the Bose Ko Viti of the Methodist Church in Fiji were informed of these personal and achievable initiatives yesterday.

The Church invited Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama who is also the incoming COP 23 President to speak at the annual church conference.

A number of conference members wanted to know what they can do to show their support as Fijians towards this global fight.

They were encouraged not to use plastic bags when out shopping and at the same time spread the gospel about it.

Simply keeping our environment clean was also encouraged. The Prime Minister reiterated that we need to at least keep our home and communal surroundings clean.

While it’s easy to point a finger at the bigger pollution emitters and say they need to do something - we, as citizens of this country can also put up our hands and play our part.

The Methodist

Church in Fiji has done just that. By inviting Mr Bainimarama, the church leadership has shown the importance of supporting Government through its climate change initiatives. In fact it’s one of the 12 pillars of the church which is “Christian stewardship and other creations.”

Outgoing church President Tevita Banivanua also reiterated the need to keep and look after God’s creation. He also urged members to pray and support the COP 23 President.

The last week of next month has been set aside for Climate Change Week. The Carbon Fast scheduled for that week will be a challenge. Especially for Christians who often take the high road of spiritualising issues rather than being practical about it.

Here are some suggestions one can take - not only during the Carbon Fasting week, but they can start implementing now and even after the fasting period:

Keep away from your mobile phone for at least three hours and spend that time talking with family

Put nutrients from your food waste back into the soil

Grow things around your compound or community you can all eat

Plant a new tree for someone as a gift.

Let’s be practical. Let’s start small. Together we can make a change.