When our planet is in constant peril and so many precious species out there are facing extinction we often wonder if there’s anything we can do to help the cause. Believe it or not the first step to making this world a better place starts with us and our everyday behaviors and actions. It takes baby steps to impact the world. From recycling to starting your own garden to volunteering your time there are many things we can do to make a difference. To help you out we came up with baby steps that can make a huge impact in our environment and some of them can actually save you a few bucks.

Recycle

Recycling is the easiest way to make a huge difference. Did you know that a used aluminum can that is recycled is back as a brand new can in store shelves in as little as 60 days? What if we threw away the can? Sadly, it will be still be trashing our land for more than 500 years. As Recycling Revolution points out, a well-planned recycling program can save cities big bucks. You can start recycling today and make a difference that will impact your future generations to come. Wanna spread the efforts? Encourage your friends and family to recycle.

Stop The Abuse Of Animals

Sadly, many companies are still testing products on animals. Many beauty products today are still testing their products on animals. What can you do to make a difference? Be aware and get active. While many companies are taking a stand and stamping “not tested in animals” on their products many companies are secretly still following this inhumane practice. Get informed with sites such as Stop Animal Tests.

Reuse

Take a look in your trash can and see just how much plastic you’re constantly throwing out. Many times half of what you throw can easily be reused. Look it at as a way to make your wallet happy since you’d be surprise just how much money you can spend each year on bottled water for example. Next time you’re out shopping invest in a reusable bottle and see just how much money you can save. Also, save some money and save our planet by investing in some stainless steel silverware and plates. Don’t know where to start? Check out EcoWise and other sites that feature eco-friendly products.

Volunteer Your Time

During Thanksgiving and the holidays many non-profit organizations in your area need a few extra hands to feed the less fortunate. If you have a few extra dollars in your pocket during the holidays stop by the toy isles and buy a gift for a needy child. There are so many children around us, even right in our neighborhoods, that spend Christmas without gifts under their trees. During school time, donate a few extra school supplies. The best way to make a difference in your community is to volunteer your time either during the holidays or during the weekends picking up liter and beautifying the parks. Not only will you feel good about yourself but you’ll make someone else feel good.

Save Energy

Not only would you be saving yourself some sweet moolah on your utility bills but you’ll also be helping reduce your CO2 emissions which contribute the greatest threat to our global warming. From upgrading your home to energy-efficient products to simply cutting back on the electricity you waste each day, you can make a big difference in our environment.

Want A Pet? Rescue One

Yes, those cute purse dogs licking the windows at the pet store are adorable but why not make an impact in the life of a dog who only knows abuse and hunger. Visit your local animal shelter and adopt a pet that really needs a good home. If you can’t adopt a pet at least donate your time to local animal shelters or donate financially.

Park Your Car, Carpool

When fewer cars are on the road there’s less car congestion which reduces air pollution and saves our air quality. Not only will you be saving the planet but you’ll so be saving money on gas and with today’s gas prices we can all use a little help. Many companies today promote carpools and set up locations for their employees. Sites like Ride Finders provide you with a wealth of information and even incentives.

Start Your Own Garden

In today’s economy many people are mastering the green thumb and are starting their own gardens. Not only are you saving money on vegetables but you’re also helping the environment by not buying produce from companies that pollute our environment. Seeing something grow right before your eyes will motivate you to think green and make other changes in your consumption that will impact our earth.

See Trash? Pick It Up

It’s a shame that there are so many inconsiderate people in this world polluting our earth with trash that needs to be recycled. You can make a difference by helping our environment and picking up trash. Trust me, we’re not asking you to grab a garbage bag and roam the streets, a small gesture of picking up a piece of paper on the floor has great impact. Set an example for others and promote “See Trash? Pick it up”. We know that children model our behavior and if we can teach our children to pick up trash around them we’ll presently make an impact in our environment for generations to come.

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