22 April 2010

Things you can do on this Earth Day 2010 (and beyond)

Today, April 22, is Earth Day. In fact, this is the 40th anniversary of the very first Earth Day on April 22, 1970.

On this day, there are many things you can do to show your respect for the earth and its environment. Here are a few ideas:

Say no to plastic bags: There are enough plastic bags in the landfills and in the oceans. If you haven't done so already, please invest in some reusable canvas bags and take them with you whenever you go shopping. You'll look cool and you'll help the planet.

Say no to bottled water: It's less regulated -- and therefore possibly lower quality -- than tap water, and the plastic bottles they come in are a whole other horror story. Instead, invest in a reusable stainless steel bottle, and refill it with plain or filtered tap water. It's better for the planet, better for your health, and better for your wallet.

Go meatless for a day: A 2006 United Nations report called the meat industry "one of the top two or three most significant contributors to the most serious environmental problems, at every scale from local to global." According to the website goveg.com, eating 1 pound of meat emits the same amount of greenhouse gasses as driving an SUV 40 miles. And so cutting back on the dead animals you put on your dinner plate can make a big difference. Meatless dining is not just about sprouts and tofu. You probably already eat a lot of meatless meals without realizing it -- pasta with veggies, a veggie pizza, etc. It's all good. And it's also better for your health. Then expand it to a once-a-week "meatless Monday" -- or more.

Then on Sunday...

If you're near DC, join the Climate Rally on the National Mall - April 25, 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. Learn more.

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