Earth Day: 5 Steps to a Greener Lifestyle

Earth Day is held every year on April 22nd to highlight the importance of protecting our environment. You can celebrate by making an effort to live more sustainably. Here are five steps you can take toward a greener lifestyle.

1. Reduce, reuse, recycle

If you just throw something away, it's not only wasteful, but it will probably end up in a landfill where it will contribute to a host of environmental problems. Learn how you can reduce, reuse and recycle materials to decrease household waste. Don't stop at your doorstep. Get involved in community recycling programs and be a green consumer. Select products and packaging made from recycled and recyclable materials.

2. Conserve energy

Saving energy is one of the best ways to reduce your household's environmental footprint. Simple conservation strategies can yield big savings. Turn off lights and home electronics when they're not in use. Adjust your thermostat at night or when you're not at home. Switch to high-efficiency, long-lasting LED light bulbs. See Save Energy at Home from ENERGY STAR® for more ideas.

3 Eat local and organic

Organic foods are produced using sustainable practices, and local foods reduce transportation and storage, which also has an impact on the environment. Look for organic food at your grocery or food cooperative and visit your local farmers market. The organization Local Harvest and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farmers Market Directory are useful resources.

4. Set up a compost bin

Saving and composting food scraps and yard waste is nature's way of recycling. It creates a rich soil additive that can improve your lawn and garden while reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. You can purchase a compost bin at your local DIY retailer or build one yourself — all you need is lumber, hardware and a little time. See Composting at Home from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for more information.

5. Use water wisely

Fresh, clean water is not an infinite resource. Take shorter showers and only run the dishwasher or washing machine when you have a full load. Fix leaks as quickly as possible. Consider installing faucet aerators and low-flow showerheads. Use water-efficient irrigation practices for your lawn and garden. See Start Saving from the EPA for more ideas on how you can conserve water.

By greening your daily routine, you'll be doing your part to make our planet a better place to live for everyone.