Interview

Without a doubt, climate change is one of the most urgent threats we face today, as it affects everything from weather patterns to food security and biodiversity. Rising temperatures are causing glaciers to melt and sea levels to rise, which puts millions of people at risk. That said, issues like plastic pollution and deforestation are equally serious, so I think we need to tackle all of them together rather than focus on just one.

As for me, I try to sort my rubbish for recycling and avoid buying single-use plastic bottles by carrying a reusable one instead. I also try to walk or use public transport rather than asking for car rides whenever possible. I am aware that these are small steps, but I genuinely believe that if everyone made even minor changes to their habits, the collective impact would be enormous.

Honestly speaking, I think most governments are not doing nearly enough, especially when economic interests compete with environmental ones. Many countries still heavily subsidise fossil fuels while only making modest investments in renewable energy. Stronger legislation — such as higher taxes on carbon emissions and stricter controls on industrial pollution — would send a clear signal that protecting the planet is a genuine priority, not just a slogan.

Both are important, but I think developing renewable energy is slightly more urgent, because even if we cut consumption today, fossil fuels would still dominate the energy mix for decades. Switching to solar, wind, and other clean sources would reduce harmful emissions at scale rather than just slowing them down. That said, reducing wasteful energy use through better insulation, smart appliances, and changed habits is equally essential — the two strategies must go hand in hand.

To be perfectly honest, I think I would be willing to make some significant changes, though perhaps not all of them at once. I could realistically reduce how often I eat meat and choose train travel over flying for shorter distances. However, I do think it is unfair to place the entire burden on individuals when large corporations are responsible for a far greater share of global emissions — systemic change and personal responsibility need to work together.