Ten simple choices we can make to help the environment every day – Macomb Daily

Consider volunteering to help with an Earth Day cleanup event. Lake St. Clair Metropark is looking for people of all ages to help with Sunday’s cleanup. MACOMB DAILY FILE PHOTO

You don’t have to save the world on Earth Day, but every little bit counts.

“We all have the opportunity every day to make simple decisions to reduce our carbon footprint, from using reusable grocery bags and water bottles to curating and recycling,” Helen Taylor, Michigan’s state director of The Nature Conservancy, said in a press release ahead of Earth Day. .

“Our actions today are essential to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come so they can enjoy all that the Great Lakes State has to offer,” she added.

Amy McMillan agreed.

“We all have a role to play in keeping the parks clean, safe and litter-free. Litter impacts our experiences along trails, at campsites, on beaches, in fishing areas, at picnics and in places where dogs are allowed to run,” says the director of the Metroparks, where every day is Earth Day.

Do you want to join?

Here are 10 easy choices put together by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to help the environment on Earth Day:

Reduce reuse and recycling

Avoid single-use items such as plastic bottles and straws and use reusable bags and bottles.

Save water

Take shorter showers, fix leaky faucets, and water your lawn and garden in the early morning or late evening when evaporation is lowest.

Planting trees

Trees help combat climate change and restore balance to your community. They also provide shade, prevent soil erosion and provide a home for birds.

Volunteer

Volunteer at cleanups in your community, such as at a park, on the beach, or along roads. Lake St. Clair Metropark Earth Day Cleanup takes place on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Teach

Help others understand the importance of natural resources, including children. Look for books that can inspire them to become environmental stewards for their generation.

Shop wisely

Buy local products and other items to support local businesses and communities.

Choose environmentally friendly products

Long-lasting light bulbs and energy-efficient appliances are some examples.

Try composting

Start a compost bin to reduce food waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

Choose environmentally friendly transport

Walk, cycle, take public transport or switch to an electric car

For more information and tips, visit oceanservice.noaa.gov/ocean/earthday.html.