Happy Earth Day! For most, Earth Day serves as a day where many use their social media accounts to post magnificent pictures of nature and the breathtaking views of their backyard- and for the lucky, views of other states or foreign countries they have visited. The day consists of countless Instagram stories and tweets with a caption along the lines of “Help Save Our Planet” or “Keep The Earth Beautiful.” Then, after everyone views their feed filled with nothing but these posts, this concern for the environment and Earth goes away and only returns for the following year’s Earth Day. I realized how easy it is just to post pretty pictures and then completely forget about it for a year, while doing nothing that actually helps better or protect the environment. I think everyone cares about Earth and wants its current situation to turn around for the better; however, I just think nobody really knows what to do. So, here I am with just some small tips and tricks that you can do to contribute to a happier and healthier planet. 

• start using reusable cups and straws
• replace dryer sheets with “dryer buddies”
• use reusable shopping bags and bring plastic bags to recycling drop off locations
• clean your dryer’s lint filter before every use to reduce drying time
• use cold water when washing your laundry
• water plants in the morning or at night to minimize evaporation
• recycle… duh!
• turn off the lights when you leave the room
• don’t leave the water running while brushing your teeth
• be mindful of how long your showers are
• carpool
• walk instead of driving to nearby places
• air dry your clothes instead of the dryer
• DON’T LITTER… please
• use eco-friendly cleaning products
• don’t pre-rinse dishes
• use paper based cotton buds over the plastic kind

I am most definitely not an expert in this field, but I just thought I’d share some easy ideas to help you take initiative. I know that not every one of these may work for some people, and that’s okay! I don’t opt for every environmental-friendly choice and am not perfect, but If everyone can implement one or two of these ideas, we will be so much closer to bettering our planet!