You know that you want to be a conscientious resident of this planet. You know that you do! But you are only one person, and while you don’t like polluted air or water any more than the next person, your one-person protest against either may not get the attention of those who dirty the globe. Still, you want to make a difference. And you can! You can extend your spring cleaning beyond the walls of your home and do your part to spruce up the environment. Here are three simple things you can do to commemorate Earth Hour (Saturday, March 26) that will make a difference to the planet and your health:
- Pick up litter. Sadly, one doesn’t have to look too far in any public place to see discarded plastic water bottles, grocery bags, aluminum cans, old newspapers and handbills. Grab a large paper bag, put on a pair of gloves, walk through your neighborhood, pick the litter up and put it in the bag. When the bag is full, place it in a recycle bin. You’ll be glad you did. And so will your neighbors! You’ll benefit from walking through your area, bending, reaching and stretching to pick up the litter you find, and carrying the bag of trash as it increases in weight with each piece of plastic and paper you put in it.
- Plant something. Whether you plant flowers, shrubs or a tree or two doesn’t matter. Just find a spot to plant something and plant it. With a little regular personal attention and some sun and water, whatever you plant will last at least a season and serve as a reminder that where there once was nothing, thanks to you, there is now something beautiful! In addition, the time you spend planting something will be good for you too! 45 minutes spent gardening can burn as many calories as 30 minutes of aerobics.
- Park it and pedal. Give your car a rest and go without it for a day. Your car emits hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrous oxides into the environment every time you drive it. Put it in park, turn it off and get on your bicycle instead. You’ll be amazed at how much you’ll notice and see when you’re not flying by it at 35 miles per hour or more! Also while riding your bike is good for the environment, it’s great exercise too. Cycling builds strength in a holistic manner because every single part of the body is involved in cycling!
Single handedly, you may not be able solve everything, but as an individual, you can make a difference that others will appreciate. And you’ll set an example that others may follow. You can change the world!
Happy Earth Hour!
