Instead of being commemorated only on April 22, World Earth Day should be an everyday occurrence. All the damage that has been done to our planet didn’t happen overnight; it took decades. We need the same energy to save the environment.
This World Earth Day, here’s what you can do to play your part in saving the planet:
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Many people buy bottled water and instead of throwing it away, they refill the bottle at a store. This not only helps the planet but saves money too.
Switch from plastic to shopping bags: When going grocery shopping, never leave your shopping bags behind. Instead of paying R1 for each plastic bag every time you shop, pay at least R20 for a bag you can use for years.
Invest in arts and crafts: If you have a stack of plastic bags in your drawer, don’t throw them away. Instead, get a crotchet needle and start making a shopping bag. That way, you’ll learn a new skill while also playing your part in keeping the environment clean.
Do not litter: It’s shameful to see people, especially adults, littering. By littering, you’re not creating jobs for anyone; you are harming the environment.
No matter what, never litter. Hold onto your trash until you find a bin, and then throw it into that. Teach your children to do the same.
Upcycle your clothes: Do not throw away the clothes you no longer wear. If they are in good condition, donate them to someone else who needs them.
And if they are not in a condition to be worn, use them to make stuffed toys or a mat, instread of throwing them away. Burning them is not an option because that’s air pollution.