Did you know that Earth Day is this Sunday? If you aren’t aware, Earth Day is a day to remind us about how our actions impact everything around you- including the environment.
Earth Day was started in 1970 and was inspired by a giant oil spill that happened in California the year prior. It encouraged Americans to think more consciously of their actions and how to better care for our land, air, and water.
To this day, Earth Day is a global effort that various countries take an initiative in. Every year, on April 22nd, millions of people work together to clean up litter, plant trees, preserve wildlife, and spread the word about the importance of environmental care.
Wondering how you can celebrate Earth Day?
1. Learn to recycle and reuse.
The biggest contributor towards pollution is the waste that many of us accumulate at work and home.
Cans, certain plastics, cardboard, and paper products can all be recycled, so before you toss anything out, separate it accordingly.
Not everything can be recycled though, but it may be able to be reused. In fact, something simple like an empty toilet paper roll can be reused for a fun craft project with the kids.
2. Start a compost pile.
Old food scraps can’t be recycled and they certainly can’t be reused, but in case you’re wondering how to celebrate Earth Day, consider starting a compost pile in your backyard from discarded food. Starting one is fairly simple, and things like egg shells, fruit cores, and spoiled leftovers won’t have to go to waste.
Not only will you be contributing less to our crowded landfills, but you’ll have soil you can use to start your own garden, fertilize your lawn, or even give to friends and neighbors for their own projects.
3. Avoid certain products.
Items like water bottles, Styrofoam, and plastic bags cannot decompose properly and litter our environment, particularly our oceans and waterways.
When you head out, bring a reusable water bottle with you. Additionally, if you’re concerned with the quality of water you’re drinking, consider using a bottle with a filter in it or installing one in your home sink. This can help to remove any impurities found in tap or drinking water. You’ll save on the cost of buying water bottles constantly, and save the environment from unnecessary waste.
You should also bring your own bags to the store when you shop. Many stores now offer reusable bags, and are much sturdier than the traditional grocery bag. Plastic bags are a big culprit of litter in our environment, so for Earth Day, make the switch to bringing your own grocery bags.
4. Use alternative transportation during your daily commute.
If you are able to, find an alternative way to work. Whether you ride with someone else, take an Uber, use public transport, or ride a bike, it’s a great way to save on travel expenses like gas. Plus, you’re reducing your carbon footprint by doing so.
5. Turn off electronics and lights when you aren’t using them.
Electricity is expensive, and it can be taxing on our environment when everyone is using it at once, especially when they may not need to. Get everyone in your family into the habit of turning off electronics and lights when they’re not using them.
6. Support your local farmers.
Choose to purchase vegetables and other goods from your local farmers. Shipping produce to different stores can add to air pollution, so go directly to the source if you can. Plus, you’ll get get much fresher food that lasts a lot longer! Our farmers are a big part of every community, and if you’re wondering how to celebrate Earth Day this year, make sure you show them plenty of support.
7. Give back.
There will always be some way you can give back and help the environment. Work with locals in your community or start a family project to help make the environment a cleaner place. Whether you plant a tree or clean up the side of a littered road, you’re helping to make a difference. It may feel small now, but the effort overtime makes a big impact. Plus, you’ll feel great giving back.
How are you planning to spend Earth Day? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below!
