Today is Earth Day and we should all take part in creating a
healthy environment for people and animals. There are several ways we can participate,
not just today, but every day.
As cities expand to accommodate larger populations, woods
and forests recede. When we moved to suburban Toronto twenty-five years ago we
were surrounded by farmland. The farmers would set up their stalls and sell
fresh fruits and vegetables that had real flavour. Today, townhomes and
shopping centres replace the farms and we eat cardboard produce that is picked
too early and shipped halfway around the world.
Recycle and try to choose produce that is not packaged in
plastic containers. When I was a girl we went to the butcher for meat that was
wrapped in wax-coated paper. The baker put our treats in a non-plastic box. Even
ice-cream came in waxed paper containers.
Vote for political candidates who support carbon-free
renewable energy sources. Plant a tree and wildflowers that attract butterflies
and endangered bees. Use mulch and good soil that prevent moisture from
evaporating into the ground. Water early or late in the day and never at noon
when the sun is at its peak.
Eat less meat. The grain that is grown to feed livestock in
the United States alone could feed 800 million people. Choose grass-fed meat
from animals that graze. Did you know that grass is the natural food source of
all animals with hooves?
Choose paperless banking and billing methods and read
on-line books. I admit I prefer to hold a book in my hands, but I am trying to
change.
Earth is not our personal dumping ground. Take pride in her
beauty and treat her with the respect she deserves.
