What Are YOU Doing For Earth Day?

Anyone that knows me knows that I am a pretty avid recycler. And it's not easy in my area. To recycle cardboard, I have to break down boxes into small enough sizes of cardboard for the trash company to accept them. Many types of plastics are not accepted, and some items have to be taken to special locations. I long ago stopped getting a print newspaper preferring to use online sites for news. I generally use CFL bulbs in my house and am careful about turning out lights and electronics when they are not in use.

My latest switch was to stop using plastic bags at the grocery store but instead to get my own set of a dozen reusable bags which stay in my car so they are always handy when I need to grab some items at the store. We've learned that plastic bags have a big impact on the environment in many ways...from the oil used to make them to the thousand years they take to break down, to the damaging effects they can have on wildlife. Some countries have banned their use or are imposing a surcharge on them. I used to think I was doing a good job by saving them and dropping them off in recycle bins at local stores, but have since learned that only a small percentage of those ever get recycled. So I now save myself the hassle of keeping those plastic bags and use my canvas bags instead, which hold the items without falling over and letting them roll all over the car and are nice and easy to store. I just keep a few plastic bags on hand for items like meat that may leak. I got my bags on ebay but you can buy them at many grocery stores these days as well. And many stores now give you a few cents off for every bag you *don't* use!

So today on Earth Day I hope you will think about what your effect on the planet is. Because one person really *can* make a difference. Think about what one thing you might be able to do, not just for today, but every day going forward, that will help lessen your impact on the environment. You may find that not only is it something that can help save the planet, but may actually save you money as well.