Simply Making a Difference on Earth Day
April 22nd is the special day set aside each year to celebrate and appreciate the Earth, but simple every-day 
actions make the difference in keeping the Earth healthy. You might think that what you do on a daily basis doesn’t really matter to the planet as a whole, but think again. “Daily actions can add up significantly when combined with others’ efforts to reduce the impacts we are having on the Earth’s diminishing resources,” said Beth Gorman, Senior Program Manager at Pima County Department of Environmental Quality (PDEQ).
About half of all greenhouse gas emissions and other air pollutants are generated from the energy we use to power our homes and motor vehicles. And food choices can significantly impact air quality, as well as water quality and supply. So, how can you help?
One change makes a big difference. Below is a listing of simple actions you can take to improve the health of the environment. These actions will also save you money on electric bills and vehicle expenses such as fuel, maintenance and depreciation.
- Replace one incandescent light bulb with an LED or CFL bulb.
- Leave your car at home one day a week and share a ride, take the bus, ride a bike, or walk instead.
- Check your tire pressure one time a month and add air if necessary.
- Skip eating meat and cheese one day a week.
- Buy food from a local farmer at least one day a month.
- Move the temperature on your thermostat one degree warmer in the summer or cooler in the winter.
- Plant one low-water use tree on the west side of your home to provide shade.
The benefits of these simple actions will be felt for generations to come. For more simple tips on going green check out PDEQ’s 51 Ways to Green the Earth poster.