The ban on plastic straws and bags that are slowly sweeping the nation is not the beginning of modern environmentalism. While much attention has been placed on going green as of late, the seventies produced environmentalist movement and the first Earth Day. Amazingly, it garnered so much attention that mere months later, President Richard Nixon formed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Then, the Clean Water Act and the Endangered Species Act followed suit.
Now, Earth Day is a day of appreciation, awareness, and action to protect our planet. The dedication of April 22nd every year to Planet Earth has created a profound impact. Here are a few fun ways in which you can reduce your carbon footprint. Ultimately, you may decide to incorporate these practices into your life every day. But trust us; if you make a difference ANYDAY, the Earth will thank you.
Walk or bike to your destination
Keep your car in the garage for one trip or errand one day. You can use this opportunity to get some fresh air. Bonus points if you can take a route through nature. Moreover, if you can bring a friend along then, you'll squeeze in some quality time.
Take an outdoor workout class
If you have a beach or park nearby, then inquire about whether they host have work out classes. Your body and mind will appreciate getting away from those machines at the gym for once.
Buy a reusable coffee cup
The fun truly lies in picking out which coffee cup(s) you want to be your staple. Make sure it is an extension of your personality; whether that means it's a multi-colored glitter cup or one that reads, "I hate mornings."
Have a grill day outside
Gather your friends for a BBQ. Although, the only catch here is to make it meatless. Did you know that it takes an estimated 1,700 gallons of water to produce one pound of beef? Going meatless one day a week can reduce risk of disease, maintain healthy body weight, and reduce greenhouse gasses. Use this chance to get creative with making your favorite dishes vegetarian and see who can whip up the tastiest one.
Thrift
Sick of the mall and the risk of having the same outfits as everyone else on Instagram? Explore some thrift shops around town and pick up some unique garments and accessories to spice up your current threads. This practice will breathe new life into your existing wardrobe and give a new home to an item that's at risk of ending up in a landfill.