First celebrated in 1970, Earth Day takes place worldwide on April 22nd. Many events are held throughout the planet to help protect it. According to Earth Day Network, more than 1 billion people now participate in Earth Day activities every year. Each year has a theme and 2018’s theme is dedicated to providing the information needed to eventually end the pollution of plastic. Most of us use plastic everyday even when we don’t realize it by using things like bags, straws, utensils, and bottles. Plastic is also found in other things like electronics, cars, and more. Some of this plastic does get recycled but a lot of it ends up in landfills or in our waterways. Although Earth Day cannot completely stop the pollution of plastic it can certainly improve it with the help of people like you. Here are some things you can do to help out the planet:
- Every time you consider buying a disposable plastic item, ask yourself: Do I absolutely need this? Can I use something else that I already have? Could I buy something that I can use long-term instead?
- Properly dispose plastic products and be careful not to toss plastic products near waterways, beaches or in open spaces.
- Pick up plastic trash whenever you see it, especially in ponds, streams, rivers and on beaches.
- Don’t buy products containing microbeads, which are plastic particles commonly found in exfoliating body washes and facial scrubs. Instead, purchase products that have natural exfoliates.
- Wash synthetic clothes less frequently to reduce the amount of microfibers that are released.
- When possible, purchase clothing and other items made of natural fibers when possible.
- Get involved in local legislation and regulation to reduce and recycle plastics.