The Green Woman

Earth Day Awareness

We live in a day where the terms “going green” and “organic” are becoming more prevalent. Many of you have taken the initiative to act on the call to make this earth we live on a better place; however, many have not. It’s one of those things that anyone can do and everyone should. I’m not preaching from a pedestal here; I only recently started making an effort to “save the planet” by recycling.

Acting on It

Two years ago, I attended my son’s third grade, Earth Day presentation. Of course, it was cute and fun to watch, but more importantly, it tugged on my heart to do something about the earth’s problems. Immediately, I wanted to get a recycling bin, and I did. We are a family that buys lots of products that come in recyclable plastic containers, not to mention the glass bottles, newspapers, and magazines that find their way into our lives. It didn’t take long to discover how much we could rescue from the landfill. Before that program, I knew about recycling…thought about recycling but never did anything about it. Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe said, “Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do.”

A Global Effort

Today, people all over the world are celebrating Earth Day.  Activists are generating awareness, families are attending programs and festivals, and organizations like The Green Generation are consistently working toward improving health, schools, and finding solutions to urgent national and global issues, such as, climate change and water crises. Today, also marks the beginning of The Green Generation Campaign TM, which will also be the focus of the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day in 2010.

What Can I Do?

Because today’s woman takes on responsibility for much of the household buying, cleaning, and organizing, I feel that we can make a difference for our future and that of our children by changing a few simple things. But if you are a type A, go-getter, you can really impact the world. Give these quick “Green” tips more than a thought; act on at least one.

• Recycle. (You don’t have to be perfect with this, just give it a try).
• Turn out the lights and electronics when they are not in use. (Duh…).
• Take faster showers. (Get a timer and set it in the bathroom).
• Switch to the mini-fluorescent light bulbs. (They really do last longer).
• Buy products that are environmentally safe and friendly. (It’s not hard to find these in any store).
• Use organic garden additives and pest control products. (I hear ladybugs are great for munching on garden pests).
• Teach your children to appreciate the world they live in. (They are the next generation).
• Don’t ever litter. (This one bothers me on so many levels).
• Organize a community clean-up day. (Teens are great for this).
• Turn down that thermostat! (Hello, have you heard of a sweater).
• Consider Energy Star appliances and hybrid vehicles. (These purchases help continue research and development of future energy -saving gear).
• Car pool, take the bus, bike, or walk. (You can do it)!
• Get behind a women’s product that supports an earth-friendly organization. (They’re too many to mention here).
• Believe that you can make a difference!

Photo by Quo vadis