by Ashley Butrimavicius

Created on: May 29, 2008

Proud Tree Hugger

In this day in age we don't want to be bothered with any extra effort for the well being of future generations. We are in the instant gratification era, and no one wants to do anything without in turn receiving an immediate response or reaction. This must change. I have a few simple changes that can really make a difference.

First, the easiest way to save the planet is to just buy the environmental bags that almost all retailers are now providing. I know for a fact that Wal-Mart, Walgreens, Schnucks, Dierbergs, (in St. Louis)and most other grocery stores have their own environmental bags available for purchase right by the registers. I understand that a lot of people would rather not buy a shopping bag when the store has ones that they give for free. If that is the case with you then another environmentally friendly alternative is to get paper bags instead of plastic. If that still is not an option recycle your plastic bags, most stores have a box where you can put the bags you got from them in and they reuse them.

Second, plant trees. Planting trees helps clean the air of toxins providing us with fresh air that's easy to breathe. Not only does this help the environment but provides shade and an appealing atmosphere.

Third, use less energy. There are many ways you can do this that are simple and easy. For instance, if it's a nice day outside open all the windows and shades to your house instead of using electrical lighting and air conditioning. Another way to save energy is to unplug items that are not in use. Any of these things will not only help the environment but save you money on your electric bill.

Finally, buy cars with smaller engines, hybrids, or fully electric automobiles. This conserves fuel which is already scarce and expensive.

All of these things if done by enough people can extend the life of this planet. There is still time to heal the earth if we all do our part. We have already seen the bad, such as, tornados, floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, and depleting resources. I would like to see the results of the good we can do. I would like to see clear blue oceans, lush green forests, and an all together healthy planet. I believe we can do this. I know that all the people in this world can unite to save our home. With minimal effort we can all make a difference in what happens 100 years from now or even a thousand. It's up to us.

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