It's Earth Day today, a phrase you've probably heard exclaimed by a few people today, but what does that mean for you? You may already know about global warming and how our earth is getting hotter because of waste and pollution, and that around the globe there is a major fresh water shortage. You may also have seen first hand how our riverbanks across the nation are becoming slick with oil and garbage runoff, and that going from country air to city air can make you choke if you aren't used to it.
Many people, myself included, want to help- but how? Donations to environment funds are great, and joining a garbage pick up team on Clean City Day is proactive, but none of these really hit close to home.
Do not fret! Here are a few ways you can personally help the environment today, and clean up the Earth you live in:
1. Leave the car at home. If you live close to work, consider walking or biking today. It's a balmy 59 degrees outside, but the sun is shining and will bring the color out in your cheeks! You'll also be saving the environment along the way, as the exhaust from our cars is the greatest source of pollution in our daily lives.
2. Take shorter showers. There are water shortages all over the world today, including millions of people right now that don't have any access to fresh drinking water. Keeping your showers short helps conserve the little fresh water that we have in the world, and keeps the arguments about time spent hogging the bathroom down to a minimum!
3. Plant a tree. As I mentioned, the sun is out and shining today, so why not get your hands dirty and give your yard more oxygen? Especially living in a bustling area, plants and trees absorb the excess carbon dioxide in the air so you don't have to. Planting a tree makes your lawn look great and your air clean too. You will also be supporting the world-wide Canopy Project, whose mission is, "to protect natural lands and preserve the environment for all people." You can read more here: http://www.earthday.org/campaign/canopy-project. It's a win win.
5. Set up a compost pile. A great Earth Day project with the kids, a compost pile helps reduce the amount of waste that fills up landfills every year and adds great nutrition to your yard. Building a box is easy to do (Read this article by Organic Gardening for easy instructions: http://www.organicgardening.com/learn-and-grow/how-build-compost-pile) and begin to fill it with your kitchen leftovers. These include eggshells, coffee grounds, dryer lint, cardboard, fruits and vegetable scraps, and leaf clippings. When they all break down, you'll have some healthy fertilizer!
How are you planning on celebrating Earth Day today? I would love to hear your story, so don't be shy about posting it below and share!
Image Source: www.treehugger.com