My Pledge This Earth Day

COMMENTARY | It's hard to believe that it has been 41 years since then-U.S. Sen. Gaylord Nelson originated the holiday that focused on green energy, protecting the environment and eliminating or reducing the carbon footprint: Earth Day. Over the past four decades, there has been great progress, yet much work remains.

This Friday is the perfect time for everyone to make a commitment to living a cleaner, greener life. I know, as I have made this commitment myself.

Gasoline prices are skyrocketing while the government continues to encourage alternative fuel sources, including renewable energy, electric and hybrid vehicles and vehicles that use flex fuel (a combination of gasoline and ethanol). As the U.S. government looks for ways to help build a green America, there are things we all can do everyday to contribute.

Here are some of the things I will do to contribute to and celebrate the 41^st Earth Day.

1. I will monitor the amount of water that I use for household cleaning and bathing purposes and only use the minimum amount required.

2. I will ensure that the only cleaning and laundry products that I use are biodegradable and safe for the environment.

3. I will limit the amount of gas used by substituting gas-powered vehicles with either human-powered transportation or by carpooling or using public transportation.

4. I will ensure that all of my appliances bear the Energy Star seal of approval.

5. I will help contribute to a clean environment by planting trees around my home.

6. I will continue to buy fruits and vegetables from my local farmer's market. Not only is this healthful, but it will help the environment by reducing the amount of pollution that results from transportation.

7. I will compost more and use fewer pesticides.

8. I will take the time to discover what plants grow naturally in my region and plant those species in order to help the environment.

9. I will practice the three Rs in my daily life: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. I will reduce the amount of things I use that may eventually find their way into a landfill; I will reuse things by transforming items into something of another purpose; and I will recycle paper, plastics and metals such as aluminum.

10. I will make a conscious effort to choose products according to the packaging and opt for those with minimal materials.

In addition to these steps, I will commit to being a voice for a greener world in my community. This Earth Day, I pledge to create environmental awareness in my community through schools, my church, social groups and at work. I will also utilize social media networking to share my green commitment.

What will you do?

Sources: http://www.epa.gov/earthday/