We hear a lot that the top 100 biggest companies in the world are responsible for more carbon emissions than the rest of us put together. It's true. Just 100 companies are responsible for 71 percent of greenhouse gas emissions.
But that doesn't mean we should give up. It doesn't mean there aren't things we can do to change our reality. We all need to act in a way that – if everyone acted like us – we'd fix the problems.
Part of the reason that these big companies are able to continue to pollute is because people spend money with them. One of the most powerful things you can do in the fight for our planet is stop spending, buying and affiliating yourself with brands doing the wrong thing. Money talks.
We've written before about growing your own vegetables, reducing your intake of animal products, shopping plastic-free and reducing your footprint where possible. Which are all great moves. After all, every piece of plastic you don't buy is one less that could potentially end up in the ocean. But, if you're looking to make a powerful change and hold big business accountable, here are some other things you can do. And the good news is, most of these are simple swaps for things you're already doing.
1. Move your electricity to a green power provider
Send a message to unethical energy suppliers by switching your electricity provider to one that prioritises renewable energy. Try using The Green Power Guide, an independent ranking of energy providers. It's an unbiased way to see which providers are doing their bit for the environment
2. Stop supporting fast fashion, unethical beauty and disposable homewares
Yes, clothing options that operate outside of fast fashion will be a little bit more expensive. But I would argue that a $3-$5 top should have never been an option in the first place – and the social cost is simply too high, one that none of us can afford.
If you're looking to find better brands to shop with, The Inspired Co. is a great resource for smaller Australian brands, most of whom are ethically produced. Also, I like to use Baptist World Aid's sustainability report which gives fashion brands an ethics rating. B-Corp is another great place to find sustainable companies – you'll find brands like Sunday Riley, Aesop and Koala Mattresses on the list.
Remember to also pay attention to the materials you buy. Look for furniture made from sustainably-sourced wood. And try to avoid polyester in clothes. Polyester is made from fossil fuels – the biggest source of global carbon emissions.
3. Consider moving to an environmentally-friendly bank
Banks use the money we deposit with them to make investments of their own. Finding a bank with an ethical and sustainable mindset can help to make sure your money isn't used for activities you don't agree with. I found this to be a helpful guide to ethical banks in Australia.
4. Vote for our climate
When your local, state or federal election rolls around, use your vote wisely. If we all put our vote towards candidates that prioritise the planet, we have a better chance of real action.
5. Where is your superannuation?
Many of us don't think too much about what our super is doing – but have a significant sum building. And it might be invested with companies that are not working in the best interest of our planet.
The best thing you can do here is talk to a professional. Your superannuation is very important for you to have a financially secure future, so you need to invest it wisely. Speak to a financial advisor or other investment professional and ask for advice on how to choose the best super fund to align with your sustainability ethics – and that will also provide you with financial security into the future.
6. If you're investing on your own, would you consider an eco-ETF?
Yes, there are many big business that are doing the wrong thing. But there are so many companies that are actually doing it right. And when you invest with the good guys, you're sending a powerful message to the market – being environmentally-friendly pays. When you do put your money in climate-friendly companies, they then have more resources to develop and grow.
Speak to a professional who will be able to give you advice on eco-friendly investment options that could suit your financial situation best.
7. When you're in the market for a new car, make your next one an EV
Despite what some poorly-researched documentaries may tell you, the biggest source of carbon emissions is the fossil fuel industry. And much of that is to do with petrol and cars.
If you are someone that needs a car, make your next one an electric vehicle. Historically, EVs were too expensive for the average person to access, but in 2025, there have never been more options and many of them are in a much for affordable price point.
I bought an electric/petrol hybrid car and it's not uncommon for me to get 2000 kilometres from one tank of fuel. In addition to being much better for the environment, the running costs are a lot cheaper too.
8. Get your parents and the people in your network to do the same
Convincing your parents, who likely have more money and more investments than you, to make these monetary shifts can make an even bigger impact. Talking to your network about how easy it is to switch to a green energy provider or swapping to an environmentally-friendly bank amplifies the impact of your positive actions.
Get the word out and help your family and friends do their bit.
More resources for further reading
Image: Arvydas Baltinas on Unsplash
