Improving Our Planet’s Health on Earth Day–and Every Day

Each year, April 22^ndmarks the anniversary of Earth Day 1970—a day on which 20 million Americans sparked an environmental revolution. Today, we celebrate Earth Day on a global scale, with almost 200 countries dedicating the day to giving back to our planet.

Although Earth Day is celebrated only one day a year, there is a lot you can do throughout the year to improve our planet’s health. Here are 6 ways to celebrate Earth Day year-round:

1. Change your light bulbs. Swap out your incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescent bulbs—doing this with just one bulb can reduce up to 1,300 pounds of carbon dioxide pollution during its lifetime. Replacing the bulbs in your house doesn’t take much time at all. Plus, because compact fluorescent light bulbs are more energy-efficient, you benefit too, as it could help you save you money on your energy bill. To get an idea of how much money you could save, click here.
2. Plant a tree. Planting a tree, shrubs, or plants like flowers or grasses around your house or neighborhood will help prevent soil erosion, absorb CO₂from the air, and beautify your home space. Just make sure whatever you plant doesn’t need excessive watering!
3. Unplug your electronics. Unplugging your chargers from the wall, completely powering off your cable box, and setting your computers or laptops to sleep mode when you’re not using them can save you $100 each year on your energy bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Plus, it’s good for the planet because it helps conserve energy!
4. Filter your own water. Think about the amount of energy and resources it took to get that bottle of water from a factory to your hand. Using at-home filters, like pitcher or faucet filters, can reduce the amount of plastic bottles you use each month. One water pitcher filter can actually replace up to 300 16-oz. plastic bottles from being used! (And don’t forget, if you do buy bottled water, always recycle the bottles.)
5. Keep an eye on your thermostat. Don’t let your home’s temperature have an effect on the temperature of our planet. Taking simple measures to reduce energy, like turning off your heat or air conditioning while you’re not at home, can save you 15% on your energy bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
6. Fuel-efficient driving. No matter what kind of car you have, you can change your driving habits to reduce the amount of gas you use. For example, accelerating slowly and smoothly, driving the speed limit and regular car maintenance can significantly reduce CO₂ emissions.

Let this Earth Day be your starting point for becoming an advocate for our Earth’s health all year long. And for more environmentally friendly ideas, check out the U.S. Department of Energy’s energy-saving tips for:

Home heating and cooling

Appliances, electronics and lighting

Efficient driving behavior