Love the earth? Save the earth!
Today is the 40th anniversary Earth Day.
Why should we care? Sunrises. Beaches. Outdoor play. Nesting animals. Forests. Clean water. Oxygen. Life.
The choice is ours. Gray skies. Plastics. Pollution. Noise. Illness. Dirty water. Vanishing species. Death.
Each of us alone cannot preserve our planet. However, if every one of us commits to doing what we can, and then stick with it, we can make a real difference. Here are a few suggestions of simple, small ways the average person can take action.
Can you recycle cardboard? Think of all the cereal boxes, pasta boxes, take out packaging, and gift boxes you go through.
Can you stop buying bottled water? Add a filter to your sink or buy a filter pitcher if you feel your water must be filtered (it probably doesn’t). Buy a reusable water container; some even come with built-in filters if you prefer.
Can you refuse to use plastic shopping bags? Invest a small amount of money in canvas bags and keep them in your car. Use them over and over. They are durable, washable, and often made out of recycled materials.
Can you better plan your car travel? Can you combine errands? Can you walk or bike ride short trips? Can you carpool to work? Can you make your next car more gas efficient?
Can you support your local farmers? They are often using sustainable farming and harvesting techniques, organic fertilizers, and protecting the topsoil from runoff.
Can you save energy in your home? Turn lights off. Switch to energy efficient light bulbs. Unplug unused electrical appliances or gadgets. Seal gaps around doors and windows. If building, use solar panels when possible. Lower the temperature on your hot water heater just a couple degrees.
Can you plant a garden? Imagine walking to your yard instead of driving to the grocery for lettuce, tomatoes, beans, peppers, etc. Can you compost leftover food to naturally fertilize your garden.
Can you stop littering? Don’t toss cigarette butts out of the car window. Don’t leave your fast food wrappers and cups in the parking lot. Don’t trash the beaches and waterways. Clean up after a picnic lunch.
Click HERE to go to the Earth Day 2010 Action Center for many more ideas and ways to help save our planet for future generations. Click HERE for more great ideas from the EPA site.
You don’t have to do it all. But, do something.
Tags: Community, Education, Health, Life, Nature
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