What Conservation Policy Changes Have You Advocated for Based On Research Findings?
In the quest to safeguard our planet, conservation professionals are not only immersed in research but also in shaping policies that reflect their findings. A Programs and Policy Manager champions the use of reusable materials, while we also present additional answers that include advocating for an increase in renewable energy funding. These insights, from industry leaders to supplementary perspectives, reveal a spectrum of policy changes proposed to address pressing environmental concerns.
- Advocate for Reusable Material Policies
- Promote Sustainable Alternatives
- Enforce Anti-Wildlife Trafficking Laws
- Mandate Carbon Capture Technology
- Expand Marine Protected Areas
- Ban Harmful Pesticides
- Increase Renewable Energy Funding
Advocate for Reusable Material Policies
A policy change we have advocated for is the reduction of single-use plastics and other single-use materials by introducing reusable materials and strategies. We have a plastic consumption problem—over 300 million tons of plastic are produced globally each year, but less than 9% of this plastic gets recycled. The resulting plastic waste and pollution cause severe damage to wildlife and the environment.
To address this, we need governments to adopt policies that promote the availability, accessibility, and use of reusable materials. Such policies foster a systemic shift towards reuse, driving businesses to implement reusable packaging and reduce their overall waste. Reuse solutions can reduce waste by up to 95%, reduce greenhouse gasses by more than 60%, and produce cost savings over a lifetime of use.
Consumers should have access to better, more affordable plastic-free and reusable options that are better for human and environmental health. The only way to end plastic pollution is to end our reliance on single-use materials, and we need reuse policies to support a system of reusability.
Promote Sustainable Alternatives
We've pushed for reducing plastic usage in line with our commitment to corporate social responsibility. Our research indicates that plastic is a major pollutant, severely harming the environment. At Superbee, we advocate for using sustainable alternatives like beeswax, which is an excellent, eco-friendly substitute for plastics.
This initiative is part of our broader commitment to make products that are "handmade with love," which truly reflects our ethos. We also support projects worldwide that promote kindness to our planet and its inhabitants, alongside supporting other ethical businesses via social media. We believe in partnering with like-minded individuals who are committed to the future of our children and the planet, and who dare to conduct their business according to their own convictions, rather than following destructive norms.
Enforce Anti-Wildlife Trafficking Laws
Conservation scientists are calling for more rigorous enforcement of laws against wildlife trafficking on an international scale. This action is based on research indicating that such trafficking is not only devastating to the species directly involved but also disrupts local ecosystems and biodiversity as a whole. By closing down illegal markets and increasing the penalties for traffickers, it is believed that endangered species will have a better chance at survival.
Tracking and monitoring of wildlife trade should be more robust with cooperation between nations. We must support policies that aim to put an end to this illegal trade and protect the natural world.
Mandate Carbon Capture Technology
Based on their studies, conservation scientists suggest the necessity for the widespread implementation of carbon capture technology. The data shows that removing carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere and industrial sources can significantly contribute to reducing global greenhouse gas levels. By mandating the use of these technologies, particularly in industries with heavy emissions, we could see a decrease in our overall carbon footprint.
Although an initial investment is required, the long-term environmental benefits are profound. Communities and policymakers are urged to back initiatives that drive the mandatory use of carbon capture technology.
Expand Marine Protected Areas
Researchers in marine conservation have highlighted the success of marine protected areas (MPAs) in preserving biodiversity and replenishing fish stocks. They advocate for the expansion of these protected regions within the oceans to encompass a wider range of habitats and species. Increased MPA coverage would also help to mitigate the effects of climate change on marine environments by preserving crucial carbon sinks such as mangrove forests and seagrass beds.
Financial and political support is necessary to extend the boundaries of these sanctuaries. We should support the efforts of organizations and policies aiming to expand marine protected areas for future generations.
Ban Harmful Pesticides
Exclusive reliance on traditional pesticides in agriculture has been found to have numerous negative impacts on both health and ecosystems, prompting scientists to call for a ban on those that are particularly harmful. These chemicals not only reduce the population of pest insects but also harm pollinators and other non-target species, leading to a decrease in crop yields and biodiversity. A move to more sustainable farming practices, coupled with natural pest control methods, could prove beneficial to both the environment and farmers.
The push for a nationwide ban is grounded in a hope for healthier ecosystems and food sources. Encourage local and national leaders to adopt regulations that phase out the use of these harmful pesticides.
Increase Renewable Energy Funding
A push for increased funding in renewable energy research is a direct recommendation from conservation scientists aimed at tackling climate change and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. By allocating more resources to the development of clean energy technologies such as wind, solar, and geothermal power, we can accelerate the transition to a more sustainable energy system. The benefits of this include not only a cleaner environment, but also the potential for new job creation in the green energy sector.
Public understanding and advocacy are critical in convincing governments and private sectors to invest in renewable energy research. Push for this investment in a better, cleaner future by voicing your support for renewable energy funding.