Earth Day is just around the corner.  It is the perfect time to take on a green challenge to commit to simple actions that will make a positive impact.  It is easy to become discouraged if we cannot directly see the impact we are making.  At the end of the day we all want to contribute to the betterment of our environment and make a difference.  Sometimes, it’s hard to figure out where to begin and to stay motivated.  Truth is, start anywhere and even if you choose just one simple action that betters the environment and stay dedicated, it will make a difference.  Start small and go from there.  Encourage your friends and family to join you in your green challenge.  Whether it is ditching plastic water bottles and having a reusable bottle with you while you are on the go.  Or, you choose to start shopping at the local farmers market.  Having others to be accountable to will help keep you on track.  It can also inspire others to follow your example.  

Earth Day Green Challenge

1.  Break free from single-use plastics.  Say goodbye to plastic straws, disposable cutlery, one-  time use coffee cups, plastic water bottles and plastic bags.  Switch over to reusable alternatives.  It might take a little time to adjust to remembering to use and/or bring your reusable items but it is so worth it.

2.  Have a zero waste day.  It will definitely be a bit of a challenge, but a good one.  For 24 hours, go without having any waste.  That means no food waste.  If you have any leftovers, be sure to eat them the next day. Compost anything applicable.  No using single-use plastics.  If you are eating out be sure when you order your drink to request no straw.  If you find yourself shopping ask yourself if the packaging and/or the items you are buying can be recycled, reused or repurposed.  

3.  Start a compost.  Scraps of your fruits and veggies are best placed in a compost in your backyard rather than ending up in a landfill.  Making your own compost will have your garden thriving.  

4. Join a cleanup.  Whether it is on land, along the beach or a dive removing plastic from the ocean you will be making a direct impact.  Post the cleanup, recycle whatever you can.

5. Start a herb garden and/or vegetable garden.  If you aren’t that into gardening, then you can always opt to help support your local farmers market.  Local ingredients always taste better and last longer.  Supporting local farmers is great because you are supporting sustainability and the economy.

Photo Credit: Beach cleanup, Plastic Free Cayman