Earth Day 2016 – Protecting Your Piece of the Planet

Earth Day is today, and 2016 marks the 50th Anniversary of the annual worldwide celebration. Did you know that the secular holiday is celebrated in more than 192 countries globally? It’s a big deal, Mr. President!

Are you looking to have an impact or make less of an impact when it comes to protecting the environment? Here are some simple ways to get started that take little to no effort. Together we can make a difference.

1. Start composting. Make those $5.00 coffees a bit more valuable. Did you know that you can pick up free coffee grounds at your local Starbucks? The grounds are relatively rich in nitrogen, providing bacteria the energy they need to turn organic matter into compost.
2. Stop using disposable plastic. This one is easy peasy. You shop every week and some stores like WholeFoods give you a discount for BYOBing. In Los Angeles, you’ll find that the cost of plastic bags add up quickly with additional charges to you grocery bill. Invest in reusable bags - your wallet and the world thanks you.
3. Buy local produce. Honestly, there is nothing better for you (or fresher) than locally grown produce. It also supports your local economy. Buy from a local farm or sign up for a crop share from your local farmer.
4. Stop the junk mail. There are several sites online to sign up to remove yourself from unwanted catalogs or credit card offers. Not only are you helping the planet, but you are also saving yourself time from going through unwanted mail. You are welcome.

For more easy tips on things you can do to be earthy friendly, check out www.earthday.org and start protecting your little corner of the planet today.

Greening Up Your Space

Spring is just around the corner, and you may already be deciding on what to plant this year in your garden, or maybe you just want to green up your space a tad.

Here are some fresh ideas on how to go green this spring:

Make an edible wall in your backyard. Companies like Edible Walls offer supplies and tips on how to create some very incredible edibles. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to walk into your backyard and grab a herb you need for cooking or cut some fresh lettuce for a salad?:

Start an urban garden. Just because you live in the city doesn’t mean you can’t garden. Urban agriculture is hot, and places like New York and Detroit have begun programs to develop urban gardens for the community to share and access. In particular, Detroit has been turning abandoned lots into gardens to provide produce for low-income families to have access to fresh veggies and fruits. It is a new way to get out there and get acquainted with your neighbors while making a difference in your community. Take a peek at all the goodness at The Greening of Detroit. Maybe there is even a similar program in your city.

Do you have a tiny backyard? You can still garden. Start with a simple window sill box and grow fresh herbs or chili peppers to use for all your cooking. 
There’s just something rewarding about eating something you’ve grown yourself. Try it!

All it takes green up is a little bit of commitment and creativity. Starting small is light years ahead of doing nothing – and by working together we can keep our planet clean and green for everyone to enjoy.

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