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For
Earth Day - try these 5 Tips
More Articles
Reprinted
from "Taste for Life" magazine
This
April 22 is the 35th anniversary of Earth Day, when millions of
people worldwide take action to protect our planet. "Earth
Day is our annual reminder to give back to the planet," says
Katherine DiMatteo, executive director of the Organic Trade Association.
"Parents and kids lead busy, hectic lives, but on this day
we should all remember to do something good for the earth."
Here are some ways you can help.
1.
Fight global warming, the earth’s number
one environmental problem. Whenever possible, walk or bicycle,
take public transportation, and buy fuel-efficient vehicles. In
addition to conserving fossil fuels, ask your Congressional representatives
to support the Climate Stewardship Act (S342, HR 759), a bipartisan
bill that makes affordable cuts in greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Buy organic products that prohibit the use of
synthetic herbicides and pesticides, sewage sludge (a source of
heavy metals), antibiotics, and genetically modified organisms.
Compared to conventional agriculture, organic farming uses less
energy from fossil fuels, reduces water pollution, and enhances
soil fertility and species biodiversity. Not only are organic foods
safer for the planet, but they have also been found to contain higher
levels of important nutrients—and far fewer pesticides.
3. Plant an organic garden, starting with organic
seeds. Instead of using synthetic pesticides, encourage beneficial
insects (like the carabid beetle, dragonfly, ladybug, and praying
mantis) to reduce pests. Plant herbs and flowers (sweet alyssum,
calendula, cilantro, fennel, feverfew, and yarrow) that attract
these useful predators.
4. Clean "green" with nontoxic household
cleaners and laundry products. Look for environmentally friendly
cleaning supplies at the store that gives you Taste for Life, and
keep baking soda and vinegar on hand for a host of cleaning projects.
Use natural insect repellents, like garlic and neem, instead of
dangerous toxins to repel household pests. If you have any cleaners
or pet- care items containing toxic substances, follow directions
carefully in their use and disposal.
5. Support an Earth Day event in your area. Natural
products stores and food co-ops often host local Earth Day events—and
many have educational materials for the whole family. Volunteer
to help clean up a local park, playground, or hiking trail, and
recycle any bottles and cans that don’t need to go to the
dump. Learn ways to protect your local watershed and the plants
and animals—including humans—that depend on it.
To
Learn More
Visit the following Web sites for educational materials and ways
to help protect our planet:
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