5 Ways to Make a Difference on Earth Day

April 22nd is just around the corner – and when it comes to Earth Day, there’s a lot of work that needs to be done. The issues of global warming and climate change are increasingly important, yet according to a recent Gallup poll the general public is mostly ambivalent. This leaves us, the committed ones, to serve as an example next week.

Take a few minutes to read about five simple anyone-can-do-it changes and then please take the time to share this article with others! If we all just take a few simple steps, our cumulative actions can and will positively affect the world.

Buy local food:

Wherever you live, from the skyscrapers of Manhattan to the rural farmsteads of Montana, there’s always an opportunity to purchase your food from a local source. In some cases, yes, it may be more expensive – but in many cases it’s really not. Im Michael Pollan's "The Omnivore's Dilemma" he evaluated the overall energy impact of "big organic" and discovered that the organic asparagus he was eating for his meal was imported from Argentina! Eating organic is good, but buying from local farmers is better. You needn’t find your entire grocery list from nearby sources either, but by acquiring some of your food from your own backyard or nearby farmers, you’ll be reducing carbon emissions, supporting local economies, and promoting biodiversity. Plus, local food typically just tastes better!

Change one light bulb:

You’ve likely already made the switch from incandescents – but now it’s time to make the jump to LEDs. LEDs are dramatically more efficient and, over the last five years, their cost has dropped tremendously. Make a commitment to install at least one this Earth Day.

Spend time in nature:

This is simple and completely free. How does it impact the world? Well, people who actually spend time in the great outdoors are likely to be more conscious of the impact of their actions – and what the world might be losing should they fail to act. So throw on your kicks and head out to the garden, park or nearby forest. You might just find yourself more relaxed and happier while you’re there, too.

Support local environmental policy:

From formal car-pooling programs and other emission reduction efforts to decoupling utility providers, investigate what relevant policies are being discussed at your local, state and/or federal levels. Determine which policies mean the most to you and then engage! Become an active supporter, meeting with local affiliates and providing the legwork necessary for such policy to be enacted.

Become LEED accredited – and DO something:

LEED accredited individuals have made a commitment to better understanding their environment. Passing the exam takes considerable effort and education of green building practices. Once you’ve become accredited, use your powers for good! Become a catalyst for change by staying active in your professional space and educating others on green building practices.

Want to make some suggestions for other impactful Earth Day activities? Comment here and share with the community.