As we approach the end of Earth Month, it is incredibly important to continue to do what we can to safeguard our planet. Increasingly devastating climate disasters—among other threats—continue to pose a risk to the environment that we cannot ignore. By taking action, you can help defend essential ecosystems and wildlife both around the world and in your own community. Here are six ways you can treat every day like Earth Day.

1. Recycle

Many products you purchase have an impact on their environment in some way. Recycling plastics and other materials helps reduce waste and harmful emissions from landfills and decrease your carbon footprint. It also reduces the need to use natural resources to create new products.

2. Compost

If you are able to, try composting appropriate foods and products. This is a process that decomposes organic matter like leaves, vegetable scraps or tea bags into soil conditioner that helps plants grow. It naturally enriches soil and prevents plant pests and diseases.

3. Buy sustainable food products

Food production is a major driver in deforestation and loss of wildlife. Agricultural production for meat and dairy not only causes deforestation, but also uses large amounts of energy. Try navigating away from a meat-dominated diet, and buy locally or organically sourced foods. These options are often more sustainably produced and consume less fossil fuels required in transportation.

4. Support Eco-Friendly Companies

As a consumer, you have the purchasing power to support environmentally friendly companies that sustainably source their products. Many of these companies use a portion of their proceeds towards environmental action, which ensures the money you spend has a positive impact.

5. Carpool when you can

Fuel burned for transportation is the largest single source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. By carpooling when you can with family, neighbors, and friends, you improve your environmental impact while also cutting down on the carbon footprint of your community.

6. Donate to the right organizations (if you can)

Rainforest Trust’s work to safeguard habitat and species would not be possible without your support. You can help by donating to our Conservation Action Fund where we will ensure your donation goes to our most urgent projects, or by becoming a Conservation Hero monthly.

Donate Now