With global warming, food shortages and impendent doom looming, chances are the world as we know it will be a distant memory in not too long unless we do something drastic pretty soon.
Some of us are already trying to live as sustainable as possible helping the earth one recycle at a time, but it's safe to say that most of today's grown-ups who haven't yet seen the greener picture are a lost cause. So what can be done?
In order have a future we need at the future citizens of the earth. Enter the 'Green Baby'.
Your tiny tot may grow up to one day become the leader in environmental advancement, but their little feet actually leave a larger carbon footprint than you may realise and can have a considerable environmental impact. So just how can you be a greener parent?
If you dress your baby in cotton (who wouldn't?), it's worth remembering that the main carbon and environmental impact of cotton clothing is in its production. Ask around for hand-me-downs or visit your local charity shop to diminish the clothes' carbon impact. This also goes for toys, cribs and anything your toddler may need in their first years.
Breast is best. Not only is nutritionally beneficial, but it's also a green source of food for your baby. A mother's milk is environmentally friendly as it doesn't need to be processed, packaged and shipped to the shops.
Once your baby is off the milk and eating solids, try to stick to seasonal fruit and vegetables. These are less likely to have been grown in a greenhouse that requires a lot of energy, and therefore have a smaller carbon footprint.
Most importantly, start your child's environmental education early. Talk to them about the importance of a low carbon lifestyle and explain why you think this way. They will grow up to follow your example and will pass the message on to their friends and their own children.
If you're interested in discovering how you can make your baby's future a greener one, the Science Museum in London is hosting a discussion with environmental experts where you can dive into the complex issues around green parenting.
Green Babies; 27 September 2012, 11am to 1pm; The Science Museum's Dana Centre, South Kensington, SW7 5HD; Booking required - 02079424040 or email tickets@danacentre.org.uk.
Image provided by PR / Photographer Demi Brooke
