Recently, climate change has been a hot topic. It is very evident in the Philippines, where the hot summers in April and May quickly turned into a season full of strong typhoons that can cause dangerous floods. A major typhoon recently hit the Philippines. Hit the province of Leyte, causing a tragic land slide.
Individuals can only do so much to “save” our planet (and humanity) from the drastic effects of climate change. We can make a difference by doing Little things. We can boycott single-use plastics if we’re in a position to do so, lower our energy consumption, and deal with waste appropriately through proper separation and recycling.
Being disabled is an important factor in determining how much one can do for the earth. Many people with disabilities must resort to less eco-friendly practices in order to address health issues and to thrive, although that’s not to say disabled people can’t take steps to be eco-friendly.
Jared, my husband, infuses factor products to treat hemophilia. This involves single-use plastic tubes, metal nails, and glass bottles.
According to a 2019 National GeographicOne expert stated that plastic makes up 25% of the waste generated in U.S. healthcare facilities.This is because the equipment used for treating patients must be sterile. Plastic serves that purpose well.
Due to her limitations, my mom had to drink from plastic straws when she was terminally ill. She also needed disposable adult diapers when she was in bed.
In Japan, which has a rapidly aging population and adult diaper waste is a problem, Growing concernAs The New York Times Last year, this was reported. Used diapers are likely to end up in incinerators, like most of the country’s waste. Divorce diapers are more fuel-intensive than other types, which can lead to high carbon emission and expensive waste management.
To help alleviate this problem, the Japanese town of Houki converted one of the town’s incinerators into a diaper recycling plant, which in turn produces fuel for a public bathhouse, the Timesreported. This in turn helps lower natural gas costs. Japan is blessed to have the resources to find this creative solution.
There are limitations to how people with disabilities and those working in treatment centers can take steps to protect the environment while accessing or providing care. Here are my suggestions.
Avoid single-use plastics if you can afford it.
If single-use plastics cannot easily be avoided, you should be careful about how often and how you dispose them. You should consider alternatives to the plastic bags that are used for shopping and transport. Stock up on multiple-use, high quality storage containers at home.
Single-use plastic products can be left for those who really need them. This includes older people, people with disabilities, and babies.
Avoid fast fashion.
I have a problem with fast fashion. This refers to mass production of high-fashion clothing trends. Because my clothing budget is very low, I often fall prey to cheap clothes at chain retailers.
According to a 2019 Article by Insider’s Morgan McFall-Johnsen, the fashion industry is responsible for producing 10% of humanity’scarbon emissions, is the second-largest consumer ofthe world’s water supply, andpollutes the oceanswith microplastics.
What percentage do you actually wear from the clothing in your closet? It’s important to think about this and not buy more clothes than you will actually wear. Why not shop in secondhand stores, or learn how to rework older clothing into newer styles?
Jared’s entire collection of clothes fits into just one drawer. This makes it easier for him to organize his wardrobe. He wears a “uniform” of plain, minimalist T-shirts with classic denim jeans or shorts. When I first met him, he still wore clothes that dated back to sixth grade. He only changed his wardrobe after he gained muscle and needed to wear clothes a few sizes larger.
Jared doesn’t go out as often as I do, and bleeding episodes occasionally force him to stay at home. He is also more comfortable indoors. So he doesn’t think he needs many clothes.
But even if one’s lifestyle is active or outgoing, we can find some perspective from people like Jared. We all have the same question: How many clothes are we really going to need? I am trying to avoid buying new clothes as my drawers are full to the brim. Instead of shopping at large retail chains, I now support local seamstresses. Although the process is time-consuming, the end result is often high quality and looks great. It’s also more eco-friendly, and I get to support someone’s livelihood.
Instead of driving, ride a bicycle.
I’ve been doing this more often lately due to high gas prices. Regardless of how much gasoline is cost, it’s always more eco-friendly to pedal than drive. Hemophilia sufferers will find cycling one of the best options. ActivitiesSome hemophilia organizations recommend it because it is generally safe.
People with disabilities often benefit from the mobility aid and enjoyment that cycling provides. There are many types of bikesThere are many options available to meet different accessibility requirements. Handcycles are a great option for people with lower limb disabilities as they rely on the upper body to power them. Recumbent bikes are more comfortable and suitable for people with limited mobility. Modern bikes can be modified with motors, supports, and other seats. These modifications make it easier and more accessible to cyclists.
These are only three ways you can help the planet. There are certainly more, so please don’t feel limited to these options. Do you have other suggestions? Please comment below.
Note:Hemophilia News TodayThis website is strictly a news and information site about the disease. It does not offer medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or suggestions. This content does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment. If you have any questions about a medical condition, consult your doctor or another qualified health provider. Don’t ignore professional medical advice. These opinions do not reflect the views ofHemophilia News Todayor its parent company BioNews and are intended to spark discussion on issues pertaining toHemophilia.
