Earth Day, observed each year on April 22, was started in in the US in 1970 by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson as a way for humanity to give back to the planet. Arbor Day, which also shares the April 22 date, is most commonly observed on the last Friday in April and became a legal holiday in 1872. Earth Day and Arbor Day frequently coincide, but Earth Day often overshadows the less celebrated Arbor Day.
Planting a tree is definitely one way to get started, but its not the only option available. There are numerous ways for someone to contribute on Earth Day, and every day. During these times of global climate change, the planet can use all the help it can get.
Earth Friendly Tips and Ideas
Simple changes at home can go a long way. 90% of a standard light bulb's energy goes toward heat production. By upgrading all of the old standard light bulbs in a home to energy efficient compact fluorescent bulbs, or CFLs, the consumer saves money, reduces heat, mercury, and greenhouse gas emissions, and only uses only ¼ of the amount of energy that a standard bulb uses.
Next , give up plastic bags and switch to durable and reusable cloth or hemp shopping bags. Worried about forgetting them on the next trip to the store? Buy a couple of extra bags and keep them in the car. Learn some startling and fascinating facts about plastic bags here at Say No To Plastic Bags.
Donate old clothes, furniture or little used appliances to a charity or offer them up through a program such as Freecycle. This will keep the items out of a landfill and allow someone else in need to benefit from them as well. When purchasing new items, always choose durable, high quality products that will stand the test of time.
Go green and plant a backyard vegetable garden and fertilize it by using homemade compost. Surprisingly, it doesn't require as much space as one would think. Other ways to pitch in are to volunteer for a local cleanup, walk or bike to work, or join a car pool. Save energy by leaving the television off one night a week and read a book or play a board game with the family instead.
There are numerous ways to make a positive impact on the planet, including purchasing carbon footprint offsets. For more green ideas check out the following resources and discover how to make a difference this Earth Day.
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