14 Ways to Thank Mother Nature This Earth Day

Earth Day was first celebrated on April 22, 1970. Today, one billion people in more than 192 different countries celebrate Earth Day. It’s a way for us to honor the Earth and all it does for us. The best way to celebrate Earth Day is by living green year-round, but Earth Day is a great reason to get started with environmentally friendly, new habits. Here are simple ways you can celebrate Earth Day.

Get Started Recycling

If you lined up the garbage trucks that Americans fill up each year, they’d reach halfway to the moon. If you’re not already recycling, get started! If your city doesn’t offer recycling pick up, then write a letter to your city council asking that they do so.

Maybe you already recycle, but you buy a lot of things. Consider reducing the number of things you buy. Reuse and repurpose wherever you can. When you do need to buy something, try and buy used. You can get cheap, chic clothes at the consignment store.

Plant Something

Plant a tree in the yard or a small garden. If you don’t have the outdoor space, plant some indoor plants or start an herb garden. Plants have been shown to increase your indoor air quality.

Use Reusable Bags

An easy way to make a difference is to start using reusable bags at the grocery store. Plastic bags take up major space in landfills, and they cause issues for wildlife when they make their way into our oceans and rivers. Plus, reusable bags are much cuter and come in a variety of prints.

Volunteer Your Time or Efforts

Find a local organization near you that’s working to lessen environmental impact. Whether it’s picking up litter or sorting at the recycling plant, spend Earth Day doing something for Mother Nature for a change. If there’s not a local Earth-friendly organization, you can still find a way to give back on your own.

Reconnect with Nature

Get out into the great outdoors and reconnect with nature. Spending time hiking or at the beach will remind you of what we’re all working so hard to preserve. Make a fun outing out of it with the whole family.

Adopt Wildlife

Many wildlife preserves allow you to adopt an animal. Your sponsorship can help an animal rehabilitate or get the medical care it needs.

Go Paperless

Switch to paperless billing for all of your bills. Buy cloth napkins for dinnertime, and save trees plus money on paper towels.

Ditch the Plastic Bottles

If you’re still buying cases of bottled water, now’s the time to switch to a water filter and a reusable glass water bottle. Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s also better for your health.

Conserve Energy at Home

Does someone in your house always leave the lights on? Cut down on electricity and your bill by making a habit of shutting off lights as you leave a room. Open the blinds and use natural light during the day. Teach kids to shut off the tap when they’re brushing their teeth.

Start Composting

Composting is a great way to reduce waste, plus its great fertilizer for your garden!

Walk or Bike

On Earth Day, walk or bike instead of taking the car. Not only is it better for the Earth, but it’s also better for you! Consider Earth Day the first day of a new healthier you. If it’s just too far to walk, take public transport.

Create A Pledge Board

Inspire others to make a difference. Make a pledge board for the office or the classroom. Everyone can stick up post-it notes (recycled ones, of course) that say what they pledge to do for the environment in the coming year.

Change Out Your Light Bulbs

If you haven’t already updated your bulbs, change out your old-fashioned bulbs for energy-efficient LED bulbs. They’ll save you money and energy.

Make Your Yard Bird-Friendly

Build a bird feeder (bonus points if you make it from a plastic bottle or something from your recycling pile!). Include a birdbath and bird house, too. Make your backyard a paradise for birds. You’ll enjoy watching them throughout the seasons.