Kind of feels like Mother Earth gave us all a time out for her birthday and sent us to our rooms while she took a much needed break.
There is no doubt that due to the response to COVID-19 with less cars on the streets and less pollution, the air is cleaner. You can see mountains that have been hidden by smog and I hear those that live near the ocean in California can see islands past Catalina.
With less people out, animals are returning to areas that were too populated (turtles returning to nest on beaches) and we all have been given an opportunity to slow down and think about what is important and perhaps live a little less excessively.
Perhaps I have disconnected a little from media (including social media) but there seems to be less friction and less fighting, or if there is, it is less frequent and a little softer.
Most have become a little more heart centered and a lot more grounded.
Whether our emissions and carbon foot print are responsible for Global Warming or not, I think we can all agree that the pristine clear air is welcome side effect of this forced staycation.
The human race has disrespected our planet and there are some things that we can do better. So however long we have left sheltering in place, I hope as restrictions lift we can all work together to care a little more for our planet.
So in honor of Earth Day ... here are a few things that I think can make a difference ....
Reduce, reuse and recycle ...
Currently we cannot use reusable grocery bags but please make sure to recycle the paper ones they are currently offering along with all the packaging from Amazon and any other shipments you are getting. Better yet, you can remove labels from boxes and padded envelopes and give them a second life.
If you are ordering take out or delivery, decline the single use plastic utensils and straws and use your own cutlery.
Where possible, refill a reusable water bottle instead of buying single use plastics and when not possible, please remember to recycle.
Be sure to sort through the items you dispose. We have special collections for electronics recycling. While stores are not accepting them currently, Staples gives money back towards future purchases when you recycle ink cartridges and there are special collection centers for paints and hazardous waste.
And whatever you do, please do not throw your single use masks or rubber gloves on the ground.
Happy Earth Day!
