‘Invest in our planet’ was the refrain this Earth Day, urging every member of this planet
to invest time and effort to make a difference by joining in community efforts to clean
up litter, to plant trees, or even to find some alone time to reflect on the beauty of
nature. Little thoughtful acts of kindness for the environment one lives in counts as
investment and as an expression of one’s responsibility to protect earth; it is a reminder
how closely each one is connected to the earth.

Here are a few ideas to ensure Earth Day and its resources are celebrated everyday:

Clean up: If keeping ones living space clean comes easily, it shouldn’t be difficult to
ensure that the neighbourhood and the area surrounding one is clean of litter, including
plastics thrown randomly. It should begin by taking on the responsibility of leaving the
place one inhabits – whether it is for a couple of picnic hours or even camping overnight-as one found it, or even better. Clear the place of all trash and dump it in the nearby
garbage bin. It is as simple as that.

Plant a tree: Residents of flats may be constrained by space to turn the concept of
‘planting a tree’ into a reality; but there’s no reason not to indulge in gardening if one is
living in a villa with enough space to plant a tree or two. According to experts,
incorporating native plants into the garden will make it more valuable to the
environment one is residing in. Native plants are said to bring in pollinators as well
as birds.

Conserve water: This one is for every person on the earth who has access to unlimited
water. It is easy to follow this through while gardening, cooking or while having a
shower. Know the difference between essential and wastage to draw the line.

Waste not: Whether it is food, water, clothes or even durables, wastage is tantamount
to disruption of the earth’s natural balance. Food wastage can be stopped by keeping an
inventory of the items in the pantry and the fridge, by creating a meal plan and by
storing leftovers. Similarly, putting a plug on buying clothes at whim, taking care of the
existing items in the wardrobe, opting for eco-friendly fabrics, giving away well
maintained clothes, etc., count as conservation measures.

Make donations: Donating to an environmental cause can be a perfect way to lend
support to Earth Day — and it fits this year’s theme of investing in your planet. There
are several local organizations that can benefit from monetary contributions; even
partaking in campaigns that are aimed at environment protection constitutes donation –
it is about donating time for the cause of this earth.

Reconnect with nature: Reconnecting with nature is all about giving time to oneself to reflect on the beauty of
this earth. Take a walk, make time to experience natural bounties surrounding the place
you reside in, appreciate the vistas… There are limitless options to reconnect with
nature and feel uplifted and rejuvenated to take on the cause of Earth Day – everyday!