Category: conservation

World Environment Day: How to Help

Today, June 5, 2022, is World Environment Day. Every day, issues affecting the environment are a major part of the daily news. Finding ways to help preserve the planet for future generations may seem hopeless or out of reach for the average citizen. But encouraging people to implement small changes is a major step in the right direction.  If you are searching for ways to help, check out the following ideas.

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Reduce, Reuse, & Recycle

Do you remember the 3 Rs for helping the environment? Reduce, reuse, and recycle are the best ways to help preserve the environment.

Reduce

Make a commitment to use less in your daily routine. Implementing small changes can produce a larger impact.

  • When possible, cut down on single-serve plastic and foam containers.
  • Skip the straw.
  • Conserve water.
  • Eat a meatless meal once a week.
  • Use refillable lighters.
  • Reduce energy consumption. Switch to energy-efficient light bulbs, turn off appliances, and dry your clothes on the line or drying rack. When you leave a room remember to turn off the lights.
  • Purchase energy-efficient appliances.
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Reuse

Reusing items is a great way to help the environment.  

  • Skip the bottled water. Purchase a sturdy travel mug or cup to refill. Before leaving home, fill your containers with your favorite beverage. Not only does this help the environment, but the extra effort also saves money.
  • Bring your own bags to the grocery store. Use reusable bags to skip the plastic ones.
  • When possible, shop secondhand stores to find household items or clothing.
  • Do not throw away clothing. Donate your unwanted items to Christian charities, women’s shelters, or nursing homes.
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Recycle

 Research your community to find the nearest recycling facility. Often, recyclable products may be set out on the curbside next to your trash container for weekly pickup. Depending on the recycling setup in your area, most of the following items are welcome.

  • Glass
  • Newspapers
  • Magazines
  • Plastic
  • Tin cans
  • Cardboard

Other areas may host special collection sites for used batteries, car oil, electronics, and printer cartridges.

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Other Ways to Help

If you are still looking for more ways to help, get involved.

  • Volunteer for community cleanups.
  • Donate
  • Write your elected officials.
  • Plant trees, shrubs, and other native plants to your area.

Every small effort helps contribute to a larger movement. Do not be afraid to contact your local chamber, town council, or other government officials on recycling issues. Working together is the first step in preserving the environment for many generations to come.

Family-Friendly Activities: Earth Day

Earth Day, April 22, is today. But in reality, Earth Day should be every day! Are you looking for family-friendly activities? If you need inspiration, check out the following suggestions of family-friendly activities for Earth Day.

  1. Go Hiking: Get outdoors and go hiking. If you first starting out, research local hiking trails in your area. There are numerous trails just for beginners. The easier trails are perfect for a family outing. Remember to take the necessary equipment, start slow, and enjoy the scenery.
  2. Go for a Nature Walk: Make a list of items you hope to see in nature. Play a game to find different types of animals, leaves, rocks, insects, plants, and more.
  3. Plant Flowers: Buy seeds to plant flowers in pots or outdoors. For added fun, paint or decorate the pots before planting the seeds.
  4. Bird Feeding Station: Create a bird feeding station in your yard. Add a birdbath, birdhouses, and bird feeders to a safe area to attract birds. Make your own bird feeders with pinecones, peanut butter, and birdseed.
  5. Go Bird Watching:  If you cannot set up your own backyard bird sanctuary, find a local park to search for birds in your area.
  6. Join a Cleanup: Check out your local Earth Day community events. Sign yourself or your entire family up to volunteer. Many areas hold community cleanups, especially around rivers and streams. Joining the cleanup effort as a family helps the environment and gets everyone outdoors for the afternoon.
  7. Go for a Bike Ride: Dust off your bicycles and go for a ride.          
  8. Go on a Digital Detox: Shut down your computer and other electronic devices. Spend an hour or the entire day away from electronics.
  9. Take Photos: Grab your phone or favorite camera to photograph the world around you. Share your pictures on social media. Ask others to join you by posting pictures to celebrate Earth Day.
  10. Hug a Tree: Yes, seriously, hug a tree. Discover the different trees in your area. If the weather permits, take a picnic. Just sit and enjoy your time outdoors.
  11. Make a Video: Document nature and the environment in your area. Share on social media. Invite others to make videos, too.
  12. Make an Eco-Friendly Pledge: As a family, make a pledge or a commitment to do better for the environment. Then, create a list of ideas to help you keep your promise. A cleaner Earth is better for everyone.
  13. Watch Documentaries: Make your favorite snacks and watch documentaries about nature and the planet.

Happy Earth Day! What are you doing to protect the planet?

20 Drawing Prompts for Earth Day

Every year on April 22, millions gather to celebrate Earth Day. If the weather is not the best, focus on the beauty of the Earth through drawing. Creating art is a great way to celebrate the planet. Drawing is great for a family project. Make posters to hang in your window. Or photograph your art to share on social media.

If you are looking for inspiration, check out the following drawing prompts for Earth Day.

  1. An Outdoor Self-Portrait
  2. Earth
  3. Trees
  4. Nature Scene
  5. Water Scene
  6. Mountains
  7. Volcano
  8. Underwater
  9. Grass
  10. Current Weather
  11. Landscape Scene
  12. Sunset or Sunrise
  13. Paths or Trails
  14. Rocks
  15. Leaves
  16. Flowers
  17. Birds
  18. Wild Animals
  19. Butterflies or other insects
  20. Don’t Pollute

20 Photo Prompts for Earth Day

Friday, April 22, 2022, is Earth Day! The yearly holiday focuses on the need to do more for the planet. Earth Day is a perfect time to get outdoors. Grab your favorite camera and document the beautiful world around you.

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

If you are looking for inspiration, check out the following list of photo prompts for Earth Day.

  1. Outdoor Selfie
  2. Landscape
  3. Woods and Trees
  4. Weather
  5. Trails
  6. Flowers
  7. Birds
  8. Insects
  9. Squirrels or Bunnies
  10. Wildlife
  11. Waterscape
  12. Hills or Mountain
  13. Blades of Grass
  14. Sunrise or Sunset
  15. Frogs or Turtles
  16. Don’t Pollute
  17. Out Your Window
  18. Clouds
  19. Dusk
  20. Photographer’s Choice

30 Quotes for Earth Day

April 22, 2022, is Earth Day. The annual event focuses on protecting the planet by drawing attention to environmental issues. Are you trying to find the right words for Earth Day? If you are searching for inspiration to add to your social media posts, check out the following quotes for Earth Day.

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  1. “I only feel angry when I see waste. When I see people throwing away things we could use.” — Mother Teresa
  2. “It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living.” —David Attenborough
  3. “Let us permit nature to have her way. She understands her business better than we do.” – Michel de Montaigne
  4. “The Earth is what we all have in common.” — Wendell Berry
  5. “If you can’t be in awe of Nature, there’s something wrong with you.” — Alex Trebek
  6. “It looks big, Earth. But there are lots of us on here (7,523,458,567 and counting) so be kind.” — Oliver Jeffers
  7. “What about naming trees?…if we have a tree in our name, we want that tree to live.” —Jane Goodall
  8. “Every day is Earth Day, and I vote we start investing in a secure climate future right now.” — Jackie Speier
  9. “Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot, the only home we’ve ever known.” — Carl Sagan
  10. “Nature is an infinite sphere of which the centre is everywhere and the circumference nowhere.” — Blaise Pascal
  11. “Land really is the best art.” — Andy Warhol
  12. “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” —Albert Einstein
  13. “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” —John Muir
  14. “A true conservationist is a man who knows that the world is not given by his fathers but borrowed from his children.” — John James Audubon
  15. “Nature never hurries: atom by atom, little by little, she achieves her work. The lesson one learns from yachting or planting is the manners of Nature; patience with the delays of wind and sun, delays of the seasons, bad weather, excess or lack of water.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson
  16. “Keep close to Nature’s heart… and break clear away, once in a while, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.” —John Muir
  17. “We need the tonic of wildness—to wade sometimes in marshes where the bittern and the meadow-hen lurk, and hear the booming of the snipe; to smell the whispering sedge where only some wilder and more solitary fowl builds her nest, and the mink crawls with its belly close to the ground.” — Henry David Thoreau
  18. “The good man is the friend of all living things.” — Gandhi
  19. “There is a pleasure in the pathless woods. There is a rapture on the lonely shore. There is society, where none intrudes by the deep sea, and music in its roar. I love not man the less, but nature more.” – Lord Byron
  20. “An understanding of the natural world and what’s in it is a source of not only a great curiosity but great fulfillment.” —David Attenborough
  21. “Here is your country. Cherish these natural wonders, cherish the natural resources, cherish the history and romance as a sacred heritage, for your children and your children’s children. Do not let selfish men or greedy interests skin your country of its beauty, its riches or its romance.” — Theodore Roosevelt
  22. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead
  23. “Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influence of the Earth.” — Henry David Thoreau
  24. “A nation that destroys its soils destroys itself. Forests are the lungs of our land, purifying the air and giving fresh strength to our people.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt
  25. “Humankind has not woven the web of life. We are but one thread within it. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves. All things are bound together … all things connect.” — Chief Seattle
  26. “I believe in God, only I spell it Nature.” – Frank Lloyd Wright
  27. “It’s Earth Day. I wonder if we can plant more trees than people for a change?” – Stanley Victor Paskavich
  28. “Earth Day should encourage us to reflect on what we are doing to make our planet a more sustainable and livable place.” –Scott Peters
  29. “To leave the world better than you found it, sometimes you have to pick up other people’s trash.” – Bill Nye
  30. “The environment is where we all meet; where all have a mutual interest; it is the one thing all of us share.” —Lady Bird Johnson

Happy Earth Day!

46 Hashtags for Earth Day

Since 1970, Earth Day occurs yearly on April 22 to bring attention to environmental issues. If you want to bring attention to your social media platforms to highlight your efforts to protect the environment, consider using the following hashtags for Earth Day.  

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  1. #EarthDay
  2. #EarthDay2022
  3. #InvestInOurPlanet
  4. #SaveOurPlanet
  5. #SaveEarth
  6. #SaveTheEarth
  7. #LoveEarth
  8. #ProtectEarth
  9. #MotherEarth
  10. #ProtectOurPlanet
  11. #EarthDayEveryDay
  12. #EarthFocus
  13. #HappyEarthDay
  14. #ProtectOurMother
  15. #ProtectHer
  16. #ProtectMotherEarth
  17. #ActInnovateImplement
  18. #ClimateChange
  19. #ClimateAction
  20. #EcoFriendly
  21. #GoGreen
  22. #Earth
  23. #Planet
  24. #NoPlanetB
  25. #Environment
  26. #Nature
  27. #NatureLover
  28. #Sustainability
  29. #Recycle
  30. #Reuse
  31. #Reduce
  32. #Upcycle
  33. #ZeroWaste
  34. #SustainableLiving
  35. #GlobalWarming
  36. #EnvironmentallyFriendly
  37. #PlasticFree
  38. #CelebrateEarth
  39. #TreeHugger
  40. #GreatOutdoors
  41. #GoOutside
  42. #HealthyPlanetHealthyYou
  43. #GrowGardens
  44. #GrowFood
  45. #PlantTrees
  46. #OneWorld

Ways to Observe World Wildlife Day

Today, March 3rd is World Wildlife Day. The celebration’s theme, Recovering Key Species for Ecosystem Restoration, focuses on the critically endangered species of plant and animal life. Restoring and protecting habitat is essential for the world’s ecosystems.

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Ways to Observe World Wildlife Day

If you are looking for ways to observe World Wildlife Day, check out the following ideas. Remember wildlife and humans share one planet.

  1. Educate Yourself: Learn about critically endangered species, disappearing habitat, and ecosystems. Educating yourself provide a better understanding of the human reliance on nature in daily life.
  2. Be an Advocate: Use your knowledge to support change for the benefit of wildlife and the environment. Contact your government officials to voice your opinion on petitions, proposals, or other changes that could further damage the environment.
  3. View Documentaries: Watch programs that showcase wildlife around the world. Many programs show the impact of humans on the natural world. Or just learn about endangered species through various award-winning programs.  
  4. Get Planting: Plant trees, shrubs, and flowers native to your area. Even a small patch of native flowers is beneficial bees, butterflies, and other insects. Trees are a natural shelter for birds and other local wildlife.  
  5. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle: Remember the three “Rs” in your daily life. Being a mindful consumer helps protect the environment. Reduce plastic use. Reuse products by shopping at local thrift stores. Donate your unused household items and clothing. Join a local recycling program or find a recycling center near you.
  6. Get Involved: Join local community clean-up events. Many environmentally friendly organizations sponsor spring clean-ups of local rivers, roadsides, and parks.
  7. Donate: Give to your local environmentally friendly organization.
  8. Enjoy: Getting outside is another way to celebrate World Wildlife Day. Go hiking. Go on a nature walk. Visit a botanical garden or nature preserve.

What steps will you take to protect the wildlife and environment?

8 Tips For Saving Flower Seeds

Did your flower garden exceed your expectations this year? The magnificent blooms are fading into memory as the fall season approaches. Do not let the seeds go to waste. Collecting the seeds from your flower garden is an inexpensive way to get a head start on next year’s blooms.

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Tips on Saving Flower Seeds

Are you ready to save your seeds? The process of saving seeds from season to season is a great fall activity. Get outdoors! Enjoy the last of your flower beds before the winter weather sets in.

  1. Tools: The tools needed to collect seeds are basic. A pair of scissors or garden clippers work well for removing dead blooms. If you have sensitive skin, consider wearing gardening gloves to protect your hands. Paper bags or other container to collect seeds.
  2. Time to Collect: Begin collecting seeds about 2 to 3 weeks after the flowers stop blooming.
  3. Weather: Wait until a warm, sunny day to collect the seeds.
  4. Collection Time: Simply clip the blooms. If using a paper bag (lunch sacks work well), snip and allow the seeds to fall into the bag.
  5. Cleaning: Before storing, the seeds must be free from debris. You can clean as you go or wait until you spread the seeds out to dry. Do not skip this step. Debris or the seed pods may contain fungus or insect eggs. Always clean the excess away from the seeds.  
  6. Drying Time: Spread the seeds out on wax paper, newspaper, or paper towel to dry. Allow the seeds to dry for at least a week.
  7. Seed Organization: Once the seeds are dry, move on the storage process. There are different ways to store seeds. Place seeds in large envelops, plastic bags, small containers, or the previously used paper bags. Mark the storage unit with the date and type of flower.
  8. Final Storage: Place your seed harvest in an airtight container. Set the container in a cool, dry, and dark area in the house or garage for next spring’s planting.

If you have an abundance of seeds, consider swapping with other gardeners. Trading seeds with others is a great way to meet people and get a new variety of seeds.  

Celebrate Earth Day 2021

Today, April 22, is Earth Day! Started in 1970 by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson, Earth Day is an annual event. Earth Day focuses on the growing need to take care of the environment for future generations.

Do you want to do your part to help the environment? Keep in mind; the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. If you need further ideas to help celebrate Earth Day beyond April 22, check out the following list.

Image by r1g00 from Pixabay
  1. Set Up Recycling (Buy bins to set up a recycling area in your home or business. When the bin is full, simply drop off the contents at your local recycling center.)
  2. Reduce Energy Consumption Use Cold Water for Laundry
  3. Hang Clothes on a Line to Dry
  4. Shop for Eco-Friendly Products
  5. Use Reusable Cloth Not Paper Towels
  6. Invest in Rechargeable Batteries
  7. Install Energy Efficient Lightbulbs
  8. Join a Carpool (if possible)
  9. Go Paperless with Monthly Billing Statements
  10. Recycle Unusable Electronic Devices
  11. Plant a Garden, Trees, or Flowers
  12. Shop at a Farmer’s Market
  13. Serve a Meatless Meal (at least once a week)
  14. Become a Secondhand Guru (Skip buying new when possible)
  15. Set Up a Garage Sale
  16. Volunteer for Local Community Cleanup Projects or Garden Projects
  17. Skip Single-Use Plastic
  18. Donate to Environmentally Friendly Causes
  19. Become an Advocate for a Cleaner Environment
  20. Get Outdoors and Enjoy

Family Friendly Earth Day Activities

Earth Day, April 22, is only a couple days away. Engage in family activities to mark this year’s Earth Day. Are you looking for some ideas on how to celebrate Earth Day 2021 as a family? Check out the following suggestions.

  1. Go Hiking: Get outdoors and go hiking. If you first starting out, research local hiking trails in your area. There are numerous trails for beginners. The easier trails are perfect for a family outing. Remember to take the necessary equipment, start slow, and enjoy the scenery.
  2. Go for a Nature Walk: Another way to enjoy trails at local parks is going for a nature walk. Make a list of items you hope to see in nature. Play a game to find different types of animals, leaves, rocks, insects, plants, and more.
  3. Plant Flowers: Buy seeds to plant flowers in pots or outdoors. For added fun, paint or decorate the pots before planting the seeds.
  4. Bird Feeding Station: Create a bird feeding station in your yard. Add a bird bath, bird houses, and bird feeders to a safe area to attract birds.
  5. Go Bird Watching:  If you cannot set up your own back yard bird sanctuary, find a local park to search for birds in your area.
  6. Join a Cleanup: Check out your local Earth Day community events and volunteer. Numerous areas are holding community cleanups. Join the cleanup effort as a family project.
  7. Go for a Bike Ride: Dust off your bicycles and go for a ride.          
  8. Unplug: Shut off your computer and other electronic devices for an hour or the entire day.
  9. Take Photos: Grab your phone or favorite camera and photograph the world around you.
  10. Hug a Tree: Yes, seriously, hug a tree. Discover the different trees in your area. If the weather permits, take a picnic. Just sit and enjoy your time outdoors.
  11. Make a Video: Document nature and the environment.
  12. Make an Eco-Friendly Pledge: As a family make a pledge to do better for the environment, then come up with a list of ideas.

Remember, have fun!                                          

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