Every September 27, “Environmental Awareness Day” is commemorated in several countries, including Mexico. This commemoration was established in memory of seven residents of Avellaneda, Buenos Aires, who died in 1993 due to hydrogen cyanide poisoning. The gas originated in one of the sewers in their home, as a result of the accumulation and mixture of sulfuric acid and cyanide salts that some neighbors poured into the drain during that day.

The objective of this day is to promote responsible practices and attitudes when relating to the environment since the current lifestyle is associated with 67% of greenhouse gas emissions and studies show that sustainable behaviors could reduce emissions by 40 to 70% by 2050 (UN, 2022).

How can we contribute?

• Avoid the use of single-use plastics (bags, straws, disposable cups, plates and cutlery, etc.)
• Use reusable bags and containers (tupperware, thermos, water bottles, etc.)
• Use biodegradable cleaning products
• Consume local, organic products without unnecessary packaging
• Reduce your meat consumption and avoid ultra-processed foods
• Avoid buying exotic species (plants and animals)
• Separate your inorganic waste and send it to recycling
• Make compost with your organic waste
• Reduce your paper consumption, print only if strictly necessary
• Reduce your electricity consumption, unplugging appliances and turning off lights that you are not using
• Replace your heater with a solar one
• Reduce car use and opt for public transport or bicycle
• Reduce water consumption by installing water-saving devices (faucets, showers, toilets, etc.)
• Identify, report and repair water leaks
• Plant your own orchard
• Support ecotourism
• Volunteer in community environmental programs