The Cliche of Earth Day

Earth Day comes every April 22^nd and if acknowledged at all, usually involves planting a tree or recycling... for one day. Why should it be a cliché? In a modern world where our environment is suffering more and more we should be trying harder every year to make Earth Day count. So here are some ideas for Earth Day that goes beyond the standard affair.

1- A Recycling Program- I know only seconds before I actually called recycling programs an over done idea, but here's the catch: Programs that are sustainable are not clichéd in the least. Many programs begin on Earth Day but fizzle out in a month. Instead of trying to create a program for your school or office building to recycle everything down to the kitchen sink, try to create a specialized recycling program, like just newspapers, or aluminum cans.

2- Replace Your Paper Plates- It's very easy on a night when you had to work late and the kids had soccer practice or you have a term paper due for the next day to, if you even sit down for dinner, to just grab a paper plate a go. It even eliminates dishes, but paper plates can clog a landfill. This earth day pledge to replace paper plates with some that don't burn up in the microwave...

3- Plant the Right Garden- Skip the tree this year. Instead plant a garden that is helpful to your area. Certain types of flowers, bushes, and plants can turn your backyard into a paradise for bees, birds, and other helpful wildlife. Talk to a local master gardener for suggestions.

4- Buy the Rainforest- So the great outdoors not really your thing? Are you more of a shopaholic than a hiker? That's perfect! Different groups allow you to make online donations to help save different environments and animals. Here are a few to check out:
http://www.worldlandtrust.org/supporting/donation.htm
www.worldwildlife.org