The Difference One Can Make
Mention the ozone layer and you immediately think of the atmosphere. Think global warming and melting ice caps and rising ocean levels come to mind. Think toxic waste and you imagine foul waters where no living thing survives and the water itself is poison. Think of the future and these things may happen - unless you do something about it. Task too big for you? It's easier than you think.
Governments and non-profit environmental groups are actively sounding the alarm that we need to make drastic changes to the way we live or face the consequences of killing the Earth (and ourselves in the process). Saving the environment is not just a project on a global scale; it's those small, personal, daily decisions that, if multiplied many times, make a big difference. Join a group and learn how to save the planet. Tell others what you know and ask them to do the same.
You've heard of recycling; take part in it! When you're about to throw something out, think first if it can be reused or recycled. There are curbside collection services for most neighborhoods, and numerous recycling centers where you can turn over paper, ink cartridges, plastic, and computers. Every aluminum soda can you surrender for recycling pays for a person's salary, lessens the need for mining the earth, and frees up space in landfills.
A very good way to reduce your rubbish is knowing how to segregate your trash. Trash segregation that starts from your own home makes it easier for recycling companies to sort waste and turn it into something useful. Composting your biodegradable waste will reduce your garbage significantly. The compost will also make your garden soil more fertile.
You should also know what is harmful and what is safe. Toxic chemicals, CFC on hair sprays and mercury batteries are harmful. If you make an effort NOT to buy these products, you've done your part to protect the Earth. Styrofoam does not decay and is harmful in many ways, but many restaurants use thus substance for take-out orders. The next time you buy something to put your food in, opt for reusable plastic containers or recycled paper bags instead. Many coffee shops are now using recycled paper for their coffee cups, bags, placemats and menus. Many manufacturers make efforts to recycle their own products. Supporting businesses who do their part for the environment is part of being eco-friendly!
If you own a car, make sure you comply with state laws on pollution regulations. If you plan to buy a new car, why not consider a green car?
Never burn your trash; let those waste management people collect them for you. Use organic fertilizers, not artificial ones. Donate your old computers and DO NOT throw out monitors. Conserve water. Urge your local government to be more aggressive in its environmental efforts and regulations. Encourage your child's school to be more eco-friendly.
What you do on your own may seem insignificant, but if everyone thinks and acts the same way, that one recycled soda becomes millions of cans. We are all part of this, and if we still want our kids to breathe fresh air for free and not buy it off the shelf, we must act now.