This article is part of a collaboration with Her Campus Suffolk for our Sister Chapter initiative.
It’s Earth Day! Across the world, April 22nd is observed to give thanks and honor to the planet that we call home. Earth Day originally started as movement to help raise awareness for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and has contributed to the success of the Clean Water Act, the Water Quality Improvement Act, and the Endangered Species Act. Earth Day was established by the late United States Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1970.
Every year Earth Day has a theme and this year it’s “End Plastic Pollution.” Many of us come into contact with plastic everyday, due to the fact that it is durable and cheap to produce. Unfortunately statistics show that at least 8 million pieces of plastics are consuming our seas and beaches. According to sas.org, “approximately 51 trillion microscopic pieces that weigh about 269,000 tons.” If that wasn’t enough to scare you, that plastic water bottle sitting next to you can last up to 450 years in the ocean. To ensure that you do your part, check out these 5 ways you can save our earth from plastic pollution.
1. Trade in your plastic bag for a reusable bag.
Instead of using that awful plastic bag when you go shopping, pick up some cute reusable bags. I’ve found some pretty cute ones at Marshall’s. They’re just as durable as plastic bags, just without the guilt.
2. No More Plastic Water Bottles!
Again I understand the ease that comes with picking up a plastic water bottle and going about your day. Trust me! However, using a reusable water bottle will help cut down on those 450 years mentioned earlier. Check out Bando for some super cute water bottles to match your everyday lifestyle.
3. Don’t Use Plastic Straws
This is going to be a tough one (especially when you eat out). According to the Last Plastic Straw project, “over 500,000,000 plastic straws are used each day in the United States.” Check out the Last Plastic Straw project and make the pledge to say “no” to the use of plastic straws. Fun Fact: Ocean City recently just pledged to have a “strawless summer.”
4. Participate in a Beach Clean-up
Lucky for us we are only 30 minutes away from the beach! When the weather finally breaks, grab a couple of your friends and head down to Ocean City to help pick up some trash.
5. Donate to the Plastic Pollution Coalition
Got some petty cash? Put it towards a good cause. The Plastic Pollution is dedicated to “stopping pollution and its toxic impact on humans, animals, and the environment.”