The most recognizable of the environmental holidays, Earth Day is a global event that aims to bring awareness to creating a more eco-friendly and sustainable habitat.  Since 1970, Earth Day has been a part of the world’s largest movement (protecting our environment). This year, Earth Day falls on April 22nd.

So, there are many ways in which you can make a difference on Earth Day. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, there are plenty of opportunities to contribute. Are you wondering where can you begin? The best place is your own home! What better way to celebrate Earth Day than to make your own habitat more eco-friendly and sustainable? If you’re looking for some suggestions, here is a list of ways:

1. Invest in reusable storage containers and utensils for your food: Ditch the disposable plasticware and choose kitchen wear that is long-lasting. According to multiple reports, over 40 billion plastic utensils are wasted a year. Buying reusable kitchen items is one of the easiest ways to not only reduce waste but also save money in the long run.
2. Get your own recycling bin: Depending on where you live, you may or may not have been supplied with a recycling bin. However, it’s still important to have one. If you’re not doing so already, separate your regular trash from recyclable items such as plastics, glass, aluminum, and more.
3. Let in some fresh air: Instead of constantly using your air conditioning, occasionally open your windows and allow the breeze to come in!
4. Unplug your electronics (sometimes, at least): One of the simplest ways to help the environment is to unplug for a little while. When you’re not home, make sure to turn off all your appliances and electronics that don’t need to be on. Also, don’t forget to turn off your lights. When you are home, spend a little less time on your electronics. Perhaps, spend some time outdoors instead!
5. Improve on your energy efficiency: While we’re still on the subject of electronics, it’s crucial to improve on the ones you already have. How about switching out your standard lightbulbs for LED ones? Or you do tasks such as insulate your home and replace filters, among many other things.
6. Declutter your home: A clean home is a happy home. Why not clear out your unwanted and unneeded items? Do you have some old computer parts you need to let go of? Do you still have those old clothes from way back when? You can always take your old belongings to a recycling center, to a donation center, or you can enlist the help of an eco-friendly service that can help you out.
7.  Start a garden: Planting your own fruits and vegetables can help to reduce the environmental impact of mass-distributed produce. Your own garden can help contribute to the lessening of fossil fuel emissions, and the use of pesticides. Not to mention, a garden increases your food safety and makes your food taste better too.
8. Get composting: Another great way to utilize your garden is to implement composting. Composting is a way to recycle vegetable scraps and other organic matter and convert them into soil. If you’re looking to begin, you can just start off with a container.

This is just a primer for creating a more eco-friendly home! No matter what you do, you can still make an impact. You just have to start. Here’s to a great Earth Day, and thanks for caring for the environment! Remember to always reduce, reuse, and recycle!