Give back to Mother Nature this Earth Day
The history of Earth Day can be traced back to the 70s while the groundwork was actually already in place in the 60s. Like with most things in life, it takes time for the masses to catch on. For a period of about 2 decades, Americans protested and some progress was made in the efforts for clean water, clean air, and the protection of endangered species. It was after these successes that the movement became one of global proportions in 1990 and now everyone was getting excited about a healthier planet.
Over the years, more and more countries joined this movement and today it is the world’s largest secular observance. While the struggles of yesterday are in the past, there are still issues that remain and need to be addressed. Some issues need to be changed at a higher level which requires the involvement of the authorities and even the government. However, there are also ways that we can all make a difference on Earth Day.
What to do on Earth Day
Earth Day falls on 22 April 2018. Being a Sunday, you have plenty of time to make the most of nature and do your bit to improve your surroundings. If you are wondering how to celebrate Earth Day this year, here are some ideas:
1. Park your car – Instead of driving everywhere, try using alternative methods of transport such as walking, cycling, or even public transport. You will not only be doing the planet a favour, but you will be able to enjoy your surroundings even more!
2. Get into a recycling routine – We have become accustomed to tossing anything and everything in the garbage but this only leads to overflowing landfills. It might not seem like you are doing all that much but, just like when you are saving up to buy something special, every little bit helps. Separate your plastics, paper, glass, and so on. Make sure that they are disposed of properly. You can even help lessen your amount of rubbish by creating your very own compost heap! So, any natural products like vegetable skins can be tossed here and later used to keep your garden happy and healthy.
3. Get a reusable coffee cup – You may have heard that disposable coffee cups are on their way out. The main problem with these cups is that they are not made from a single type of material (like paper) which makes them difficult to recycle. If you get a reusable coffee cup, you can reduce your waste by five cups and five plastic lids per week! If you buy coffee every day before work, then you will save at least 300 cups from ending up in landfills every year! Want to get your friends involved? Buy them a reusable cup as an unexpected gift or even for their birthday. It’s practical and it will help the environment.
4. Turn off what you aren’t using – If you were ever told as a child to turn off a light or appliance that you were not using, this was probably because mum and dad wanted to keep the electric bill down. Another benefit of turning off electrical appliances is that you will not be placing as much pressure on the power grid. Electricity suppliers often use large power plants that send all sorts of nasty byproducts into the air. The less electricity you use, the lower the demand and the lower the pollution.
5. Plant something – If you have a garden and you have space for a tree, then, by all means, plant a tree! Just make sure that the roots will not disrupt any waterlines or the foundation of any homes. Another option is to choose a potted plant. Potted plants are available as flowering and non-flowering varieties. They are excellent for adding beauty and purifying the air in your home.
6. Get out there – Don’t spend the entire day indoors. Go outside and enjoy nature – that’s what it’s there for! If you fancy some yoga, go ahead. Alternatively, you can relax and have a picnic, take the kids to the park, or simply go for a stroll around your favourite botanical garden. Spend the day outdoors and you won’t consume any electricity on lights, TV, or similar appliances.
With these ideas, you will see just how much nature has to offer. Take the time to teach your young ones about the importance of conservation and preserving that which is most precious. Happy Earth Day!