Saving the environment, made easy!

When you take a look outside, what do you see? Most of us take for granted the beautiful trees that supply us oxygen, and the air we breathe. Elements such as air, water and land are things that the average person thinks very little about, because they feel they are here for our use and consumption. But not for long, if we do not take steps to ensure their future vitality.

The simplest things you can do will have a great impact on our earth. Most people think they cannot help, but for every one person that changes their attitudes, the benefits for our earth quickly add up.

Here are some steps you can take to help!
1. Recycle, recycle, recycle. It sounds so simple, yet every time I pass a trash can there is a glass bottle in there. This simple act has helped reduce landfill volume dramatically, but so much more can be done.

2. Roll down your car window for air, only. Don't throw anything out of it. Although keeping that wrapper in your car for the duration of your trip may be a little annoying, it's something simple with many benefits. The road critters won't have the opportunity to gag on it, the roads will look cleaner, and you can avoid litter fines. Not too shabby, huh? This goes for anywhere you are. Wait until you get to a trash can to dispose of litter.

3. Dispose of oil properly. If you think you're saving money doing oil changes by yourself, think again. Put oil where it belongs, properly contained and disposed of. The earth has a much higher price to pay than you do for that oil.

4. Smash your trash. Instead of loosely filling up your garbage cans, compress the load down. You'll get more wear out of your garbage bags and the landfill will get more use, too!

5. Walk. This is the age-old recommendation. But it really works! Walk when you can. You'll use less gas, and get a workout as well. For those who can't easily walk to necessary places, organize your daily errands into one, multi-tasked trip.

6. Get involved. Your town has many opportunities for you to make a difference. There are also many national organizations with local branches that are in need of assistance. Getting involved with the community can be fun and environmentally friendly.

7. Vote. Many environmental issues take a political turn. Get educated and let your voice be heard. You don't have to be a politician to know what's right or wrong.

These few steps will make you a more environmentally conscious and happy person. You'll feel better about yourself because you've made a contribution, and you'll appreciate what you see more the next time you step outside, too.