It is that time of year again, when nature and environment enthusiasts from across the globe unite to celebrate planet Earth.
Earth Day has arrived, and this 34-year-old celebration should not just be for the activists and the elementary student population. This year, everyone should think of some way, small or large, they can repay the earth from which they get everything.
With the worsening conditions of the environment, these resources quickly are depleting. People need to wake up and realize that they, too, are caretakers of this place.
Education always is a good first step. Many organizations have done a solid job at producing environmentally friendly slogans, such as Nickelodeon's early-'90s commercials about energy conservation and recycling. The "turn off the lights" campaign sticks with students today as they leave their dorm rooms.
In addition to education, actions are crucial. It isn't about everyone running outside and hugging a tree or recycling every piece of plastic. There are small steps that also can be taken to ensure a longer planet life. In these effortless actions, a difference can be made easily:
When spitting gum out, find a wrapper and a trash can; put cigarette butts out in designated ashtrays, not the sidewalks or grass.
Before heading to class, turn off the computer monitor to save some energy. If it's sunny out, forget about the light, open a window and let a breeze flow into the room instead of that air conditioning.
During your bedtime or morning routines, turn the water off while brushing your teeth.
And the showers don't need to be long enough to sing your favorite CD through twice. Get in, soap up, rinse, repeat and call it good. It is amazing how many resources are overused daily.
Don't worry about refilling the gas tank whenever the arrow drops below three-quarters of a tank. Every time a car is refilled, gas vapors are released into the air. When you can, walk or ride your bike to class or work.
Earth Day is a celebration of a good cause, but it shouldn't be a once-a-year type thing. Appreciating the environment should be a lifestyle.
And at the very least, take the day to look at and appreciate nature. With the pressure of the end of the semester here, the earth isn't the only thing that could use the break - go outside and enjoy campus.
