Save the Earth Today : 10 Simple Things You Can Do

Our fragile planet has been through a lot over the years. Pollution, deforestation, and the destruction of earth's ecosystems are major issues that need to be taken seriously. Starting from today there are some simple things you can do to help protect and save the environment.

The first and easiest thing you can do about environmental protection is to recycle. Almost everything we use and throw away every day is recyclable: plastic containers, stationary paper, aluminum cans, glass bottles, electronic devices etc. Depending on the recycling system in your region there are bins to separate actual waste from the recyclable waste. It is so easy that there really isn't any reason that you are not recycling already.

Don't throw it away if you can reuse it. Donate the clothes and shoes that don't fit anymore. Your Child's old toys can find a new home. Another person's garbage is someone else's treasure. By donating you don't only contribute to society you contribute to the protection of the environment and to yourself. Another thing you can start doing from today is using reusable bags for carrying your purchases home.

Did you know that there might be plastic in your body right now? Fish have been found recently that contain microscopic pieces of plastic in their system. And guess who eats fish! Well, all of us do. Unfortunately, many plastic containers find their way to the sea where they eventually break down into smaller and smaller pieces. Plastic does not decompose ever. What can you do about it? Buy and use as less plastic as you can. And remember the least the packaging of a product, the least the environmental impact it causes.

The consumption of electricity has reached greater limits nowadays. Due to the need for more energy, more power plants are been constructed adding even more hazardous waste like the waste that comes from nuclear power plants. To minimize your personal energy consumption try switching off the lights when you leave a room. Unplug the elecronic devices when you are not using them. Don't leave your phone to charge all night and replace your light bulbs with low energy consuming ones. Not only are these practices good for the environment but they also benefit your bank account.

Only a small percentage of the earth's water can be used by humanity. Water pollution has been an issue over the years. Water shortage and quality problems exist even in the most developed countries of the world. Therefore, It is wise to monitor our daily water consumption. When you are taking a shower or brushing your teeth turn off the water faucet when it's not needed. Use your washing machine only when it's full of laundry. And last but not least, try switching to eco-friendly cleaning products.

Cars not only are responsible for air pollution but they also use diesel and petroleum whose extraction is really harmful and dangerous for the marine and coastal ecosystems. Try using the public transportation like taking the bus or the subway and leave your car into the garage. Or even better, try walking more, or start using your old bicycle. This way, not only do you minimize air pollution, you can also minimize your waist.

Even in the most civilized cities with a high standard of living, you can find litter on the streets, parks and beaches. All these littering finds eventually it's way to the sea where it affects the marine and coastal ecosystems. You have probably already heard about the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. It's an island in the Pacific ocean made entirely out of garbage and plastic that end up every year in the sea. It's a fortunate thing that many countries have laws to prevent littering and even a cigarette bud can cost you a hefty fine. Just don't be lazy, stop littering and throw your garbage where they belong. In the garbage bins.

Volunteering in local Environmental groups or contributing to Non-Profit Organizations that aim to help in the solution of many environmental issues is another way of helping to protect the planet. There is always a cause like "tree planting day" or "beach cleaning week" that could really benefit from individuals like you. Don't be shy and get involved.

Chemical fertilizers are gradually polluting the underwater storage supply and are leeching eventually into the rivers, the lakes and the sea. High concentrations of chemicals such as nitrogen, phosphate and potassium can really harm the sensitive ecosystems of our planet. Compost has become very popular lately due to the eco-friendly movement. It is easy to be made, doesn't cost a thing and it can be used as an organic plant fertilizer for your garden. Think that by recycling, reusing and composting you can really minimize your household waste.

A simple way of life is the best tactic not only for you but for the protection of the environment as well. Take a break from your consuming habits and think. Do you really need all that stuff you are constantly buying? Are you eating all the food in your fridge and cupboards or is at least a 30% going to waste? The cycle of consumption is a vicious cycle. Once you are in you need, or to be more precise, you think you need more and more. Can the planet benefit from your consuming habits? I think you know the answer to that.