Today marks the 44th anniversary of Earth Day! First celebrated in 1970, the international day of peace, created to honor our planet, came about from millions of people rallying to increase environmental protection and led to a proclamation signed by the United Nations.
Over 192 nations will celebrate the Earth today by donating time, money and physical labor to keep our planet green, clean up the environment and create sustainable ways of living.
How can you do your part?
Recycle
Sure, you’ve heard it a million times. But, according to the Clean Air Council, Americans still throw away enough paper and plastic cups, and plastic utensils, to circle the equator 300 times…and that’s only cups and utensils!
It takes anywhere from 400-1000 years, depending on the type of plastic, for a bottle to completely biodegrade!
Using recycled products also helps the environment! Using recycled paper creates nearly 3/4 less air pollution to produce than new paper.
Invest in a bike
Cars have air conditioning. They get you from point A to point B in much less time. But if you’re meeting a friend for coffee, or going to the gym, invest in a bike. You’ll save money on gas in the long run, get a great work out and reduce a great deal of CO2 from the air.
Be mindful of water consumption
Turn the water off when you brush your teeth…duh!
Enjoy a lazy moment and use the automatic carwash. Believe it or not, they use less than 1/2 the water than it would take to do it yourself.
Don’t wash your hair everyday. Not only is it healthier for your hair, you’ll be saving water and reducing the amounts of pollutants being sent down the drain from your shampoo and conditioner chemicals. ew!
Donate
There are some people who have dedicated their lives, or large chunks of it, to protecting different elements of the planet. Search for something you’d like to be involved in and donate money so they can have the resources they need to keep doing what they’re passionate about!
How are you celebrating Earth Day?
