Become a Waste Warrior
On April 22, more than a billion people celebrate Earth Day to protect the planet from things like pollution and deforestation. By taking part in activities like picking up litter and planting trees, we’re making our world a happier, healthier place to live.
Here are some ideas to help save the planet, anytime of the year-
PLANT A TREE
Researchers estimate roughly 15 billion trees in the world are cut down each year, so help offset that loss by planting a tree of your own. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen for people to breathe. They also provide shelter and food for animals such as squirrels and owls. Depending on where trees are planted, their shade can even reduce the need for air-conditioning in hotter months. How many more reasons do you need to go green?
TURN OFF THE LIGHTS
Does that lamp really need to be on while the sun is out? Electricity doesn’t just happen—it has to be produced from things around us. A lot of times it comes from fossil fuels (such as coal, oil, or natural gas) that contribute to climate change. But electricity can also be made from renewable sources like wind, water, the sun, and even elephant dung! No matter where it’s coming from, try conserving electrical energy by using only what you need.
LIMIT YOUR WASTE USAGE
It might seem like it’s everywhere, but clean, drinkable water is a limited resource. In fact less than one percent of the water on Earth can be used by humans. (The rest is either too salty or too difficult to access.) Turning off the faucet when you brush your teeth can conserve up to eight gallons of water a day. To help save even more water, challenge yourself to take a shorter shower (but still get clean!).
OFFER YOU TIME
With a parent’s permission, volunteer to pick up trash at a nearby park, start a collection drive for recyclable items, or organize a screening of an environmentally themed movie. By getting involved and working with others, you’re not just helping the Earth—you’re making new friends too!
SPREAD THE MESSAGE
Talk to your friends and family members about what you’re doing and ask them to help. Need to get the conversation started? The more people do, the better off our planet will be!
TAKE ONE OF OUR CHALLENGES AND BECOME A PLANET HERO!
• In its lifetime, one reusable bag can prevent the use of 600 plastic bags.
• Recycling one can of soda will save enough energy to power a tv for three hours.
• Shutting down a computer when it’s not in use cuts the energy consumption by 85 percent.
• For every mile walked instead of driven, nearly one pound of pollution is kept out of the air.
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