Letter from the editor

THE CLIMATE crisis is a worrying issue facing humanity right now. It has an impact on everything, especially on our future on Earth.

It also affects where we build and buy homes. With rising sea levels, and an increase in floods and other natural disasters, the number of climate refugees – people escaping the worst that Earth has to offer – is set to grow at an alarming rate.

We saw devastating floods that claimed hundreds of lives in KZN recently. And we are not alone. New York, among other cities, have also recently faced devastating floods.

Environmentalists are quick to warn us against adopting a “no-hope attitude”. They continue to lobby governments and big business to change their ways to give us a chance at survival.

They tell us to do what we can, where we are. This includes recycling at home, adopting a circular economy by up cycling, saving water, growing our own food and adopting other greener ways.

An environmentalist friend once told me if we switched off every air conditioner in the world there would be an immediate positive impact on saving Earth as we know it for future generations.

Going off the grid is also helpful, and with load shedding, it’s a no-brainer.

Leaving the grid has some barriers to entry, including high initial costs, but those who have bitten the bullet say there wards are abundant.

Whatever you choose to do in your home, please keep it green and be gentle to Earth. It truly is the only true home we have.

Warm regards

Vivian Warby

vivian.warby@inl.co.za