April 7, 2025
Whether we choose to use reusable straws, recycle plastic bottles or shut the light when leaving a room, we all have a personal responsibility to care for the environment.
Especially during Earth Month, it is important to recognize that the planet desperately needs our help. Issues such as climate change and pollution are currently affecting the Earth, so we must take steps to safeguard it.
There are numerous ways in which individuals can protect the environment. Many of these actions are small and convenient.
For example, utilizing reusable products rather than single-use ones can limit widespread problems like energy waste, greenhouse gas emissions and waste in landfills. It is also economically beneficial since eliminating waste limits government costs for managing and removing it.
Especially during Earth Month, it is important to recognize that the planet desperately needs our help.
According to the human rights nonprofit organization DigDeep, the average American family spends $1,350 per year on purchases of plastic bottled water, so using reusable water bottles can amount to major savings.
Another eco-friendly habit is unplugging appliances and electronics when they are not in use. When devices are plugged in, they consume energy, which is known as phantom power. Therefore, unplugging significantly reduces one’s carbon footprint.
ILLUSTRATION BY IOANNA HANTZARAS
Additionally, it is necessary to support eco-friendly brands and purchase sustainable products. Companies such as the clothing brand Cotton On set planet-positive goals to achieve in the coming years. The company plans to have 100% recyclable or reusable packaging by this year. Its aim to use 100% renewable energy by 2030 is prominent among its other goals.
Moreover, many individuals lack knowledge about the benefits of eco-friendliness and fail to protect the planet. Therefore, schools must supply this information.
Enrolling in an ecology-related class alone does not make for an entirely educated student body, though. Instead, teachers should consider incorporating environmentally friendly topics into their lessons.
Individuals must be aware of their responsibility to care for the environment. By being educated about and interested in the topic, people can focus on motivating others to participate in small, environmentally conscious acts. Showing people evidence of the long-term detriments of ignoring the environment can also be effective.
No matter how small, every positive action contributes to saving the planet from environmental threats. Individuals should take the initiative by making eco-friendly choices, which, in turn, will inspire others to do the same.