Simple steps to care for the planet

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(NC)—Earth Day is a time when millions of people around the world celebrate and renew their personal commitment to environmental stewardship. If you feel you're not doing enough, it might be time to make a deeper commitment to the planet. Here are a few ideas to put into practice to help save our environment on Earth Day and every day:

Reduce the destructive impact of modern life

Get in the habit of turning off lights, computers and appliances when they are not in use. Swap standard light bulbs for energy efficient fluorescent ones to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. If you drive to work, consider a more environmentally-friendly commute. Take public transit, share a ride with coworkers in your neighbourhood or bike to work as often as possible. Recycle any plastics, cardboard (including packaged food boxes), aluminum, newspaper, cans and glass products. Reduce the amount of plastic bags that pollute the environment by purchasing re-usable bags for your shopping needs.

Go green by giving to charity

Giving to charity teaches many valuable lessons to every member of the family. Take a day and gather everything that you don't want or no longer need and donate old household items, computers, toys, books and clothing to a local thrift store. You can also hold a yard sale and donate the proceeds to your charity of choice. A non-profit organization like Christian Children's Fund of Canada (www.ccfcanada.ca) will use your donation to provide a family living in poverty with an environmentally-efficient cooking stove that is fuelled by vegetable trimmings and leaves instead of wood. It's less wasteful and better for the environment.

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