On 25 March, people the world over observe Earth Hour, during which non-essential electric lights are switched off for an hour. While South Africans are no strangers to being in the dark as a result of loadshedding, this global activity is nonetheless a reminder of the need for urgent action to stem the tide of climate change. Here are a few tips on the daily actions you can take to help the planet.

In 2015, the United Nations adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), some of which are a universal call to action to protect the planet. But will our actions make a difference, and can we contribute to improving the planet for future generations? Can individual actions in South Africa, specifically Pretoria, make a difference to the future of the planet?

It’s easy to be cynical and pessimistic, yet every small action plays its part in saving the planet and can be viewed as a positive contribution and investment in the earth.

Tertiary institutions and undergraduate students can contribute in their own way. The University of Pretoria (UP) can demonstrate environmental commitment and benefit from improved student and employee well-being. In addition, green initiatives can stimulate innovation and reveal creative revenue sources or new development. But UP students should not simply change their environmental actions for the sake of changing or because of pressure from fellow students. Behavioural change should be internally motivated. That said, green practices in your personal life can also reduce costs and save money.

UP is a community of almost 64 000 staff and students. If each of us does the following every time, we can contribute to improving the sustainable future of our planet:

• Switch the lights off when you leave an office or room.

• Ensure that you close a tap when you are finished using it.

• Make use of car pools or, even better, use public transport or bicycles and Uber.

• Cut down on what you throw away.

• Stop littering and pick up any trash.

• Plant a tree.

• Say no to plastic bottles and bags.

• Buy second-hand items and clothing, or at least think twice before you buy.

• Invest in a wooden/bamboo toothbrush.

• Buy a travel cup.

• Shop locally and organically.

• Plant pollinator-friendly plants.

• Communicate the message to your friends and families.

Remember, our planet is our most precious resource, so protecting it needs to be everyone’s responsibility. Growing concerns about climate change and carbon emissions have resulted in several global, national and local initiatives to save the planet. These initiatives have helped to create a more sustainable future. Make your contribution now and remember, today matters.