My Earth Day Contribution

Each Earth Day that passes by reminds one to think about its significance and the world we live in. Often times, we carry on with our normal, busy lives without an afterthought of the earth and what it does for us individually and as a society. We take the earth of granted. Sure, we hear about global warming and how the ice caps are melting or how we need to be more "green", but do we really? This year, I am reminded that we really do need to take care of our earth before there is nothing left of it. Here are some Earth Day ideas that I have come up with.

Recycling: This sounds so mundane, but it really does help. To buy products that are recycle-able and to recycle them after its use. We learn of this concept since elementary school, but how many of us actually do this? Also, there are moments that you can actually EARN money for doing it-i.e. recycling cans. It may be a couple cents or dollars here and there, but who is going to turn down "free" money?

Receipts: There is talk going on that the paper receipts are printed on, are not the most friendly on toxins. So, why do we keep taking them and moreover, why are we wasting more paper?! So, next time the gas station offers to give me a receipt, I will press no. And if the grocery store offers me one, you can technically decline a receipt printed.

Checking your electricity and water usage: Often times, your water and electricity bills can be paid online. That is extra paper saved! Also, many companies now chart your usage, often daily or even hourly. It helps to look at the times of the most consumption and try to tailor your needs to off-peak hours. This actually does help the environment when you learn to curb your usage and also helps your wallet. Win-win situation!

Use re-usable bags: Every time we buy something, bags are offered to us. Sure, paper bags may not be as bad as plastic bags because we can recycle them, but this goes back to point number one. Are you really recycling your paper bags? Also, is it necessary to have all these plastic bags at home. You can technically re-use them, but those extra ones always get tossed. I heard that land fills and the ocean sometimes are filled with them. What a waste of resources! Hence, re-usable bags are handy to keep in your car and to take with you to the store. Many stores now I noticed actually give you a small little discount for using them! Every penny counts, and if it helps the environment, it's worth it.

So, here are just a feel things I would do this Earth Day and for the rest of the year as my contribution to our Earth. May we all take care of the Earth so it may take care of us in return!