Candice Thompson
InMotion Staff Writer
It’s time to go greener, and not just on Earth Day. Every day.
According to Earthday.org, Earth Day was created by US Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1970 after an oil spill the previous year. Twenty million people came together across the nation to show support and learn how to create a better living environment. Today, 184 countries recognize Earth Day every April 22.
One person can make a difference. If everyone joined forces and did their part, the world would be a greener, fresher, healthier place. Here are a few ideas for Earth Day and every day.
Throw on a backpack and grab a bicycle the next time a few items are needed from the store. It’s a great way for students to get themselves and their planet in shape. Keep cloth grocery bags in the trunk of the car for those bigger shopping trips.
Plant a garden! With all of the chemicals used to grow food, more people are choosing organic fruits and veggies. Growing fresh herbs and produce is healthy, rewarding and fun. Or plant a butterfly garden. There are many colorful and inexpensive plants that attract different kinds of butterflies, bees and even hummingbirds. Bees are a vital part of our ecosystem. They pollinate over one-third of the earth’s food supply. Hang a bird feeder and place a small bird bath in the garden to complete this tiny paradise. All that’s needed is a lawn chair and it becomes a peaceful place for morning coffee.
If money literally grew on trees, it’s doubtful the rainforests would be destroyed. Since they only produce the oxygen we breathe necessary to keep life on this planet alive, it’s baffling they aren’t held in higher regard. Plant a beautiful tree in honor of a pet or loved one and cherish it for years to come.
Take a hike — literally! Turn off your phone and go connect with nature. Listen to the birds chirp, feel the leaves crunch beneath your feet.
Other little things that can be done around the house conserve water. Turn the sink off while brushing teeth, washing hands, doing dishes and while taking a shower. Only use the dishwasher and washing machine when there is a full load. Turn off the lights and ceiling fans when not in the room. Turn off the TV, grab a book and go read outside.
Go paperless. Just about every single company that issues a monthly statement or bill has a paperless option. Go online to their website and make the switch. It is better for the environment and it’s safer. Who wants to throw away bank statements with all of their personal information on them? That is so yesterday.
Everyone remembers those three little ‘Rs’ — Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Ditch those disposable plastic water bottles (in the recycle bin, of course) and replace them with a reusable container.