Earth Day is here, and I have recently been wondering, does this global environmental movement get the recognition it deserves? Each year my children have come home from school with an Earth Day art project that I neatly stashed away in the closet, only thinking about how adorable their prize works were, but never really thinking about the true meaning behind Earth Day — that is, until a few years back when I took an environmental science class that forever changed my PERSPECTIVE.
Now, by no means have we completely “gone green”, nor have we become the poster family for “Captain Planet“; but we did recognize that small changes could make a big impact. I wanted my children to understand the importance of taking care of Mother Earth, the beautiful creation that God has in entrusted into our hands. I won’t go into details about carbon footprints, greenhouse gases, shortages of clean water, or The Garbage Patch Island. (YES! There is an actual island, made up of trash, that covers eight percent of the Pacific Ocean!) But, what I will do is share with you three family-friendly habits so you can do more for Mother Earth, each day.
1. RECYCLE
We recycle aluminum and plastic in our home. Another great idea that we do is allow our children to keep the money from the recycled items. This not only encourages them to get involved but also provides a small reward. You can also use this method to teach them about money management. Boom! 2-for-1 lesson … how to recycle to save “Mother Earth” and how to save money because money doesn’t grow on trees.
Keep in mind that to recycle just means to reuse, so don’t just stop at recycling plastic and aluminum. Actually take a good inventory of your home and be creative with what you can re-purpose. Also, try buying recycled items when possible. I have fallen in love with a company called Mixed Bag Designs that makes products out of recycled materials. They even make organizational containers … need I say more? “Spring Cleaning is Coming!” [Only Game of Thrones fans will get that! ?]
2. CULTIVATE A GARDEN OR BUY LOCAL
Start a small family garden — or better yet, get involved in a community garden. I love this idea! Your family can learn a new life skill and you can teach your children the importance of giving back. Boom! Another 2-for-1 lesson.
Just recently, I joined a friend and her church members that are in the process of building a community garden for “Gardening with God”. This project will eventually feed those in need. Although it is in the beginning stages, I am beyond excited to see what the harvest will bring.
I have to be honest … gardening is one thing that I am HORRIBLE at. I am ashamed to tell you how many plants in the past I have recycled back into the ground … that is just my way of saying I killed them! It sounds a lot nicer when I say recycled. So, the art of gardening I have not mastered just yet. I even killed the plant that my son brought home last year for Earth Day! The struggle is real, Folks!
My father-in-law had a garden that he loved, but sadly, he just recently passed; and now there is no one to tend to the garden that has been in his family for generations. So this year, I am adamant about learning how to do so, in honor of him.
To start off small, I have decided to start a patio garden. How awesome would it be to cook with my own home-grown produce and spices?! To be continued … Will I develop a green thumb, or will I continue to be the black plague to plants? If gardening is not a good fit for you and your family, don’t lose hope. Buy locally, and take a family field trip to your nearest farmers market. Buying local not only helps out Alabama farmers, but also reduces the amount of air pollution since produce does not have to be transported from California or other states.
3. GO BIKING OR HIKING
Let your children see the beauty in nature. This is a great way for your family to see how your efforts are small puzzle pieces to a bigger picture. It is also a great way to bond as a family, get a little exercise, and in most places it is FREE!
What are some of your favorite ways to enjoy and care for Mother Earth? Share with us in the comments below!