Here's what I think: Going Green for the Earth

Wednesday is Earth Day and over the years this singular day to celebrate the earth and be green has evolved. Now many people celebrate Earth Week and some consider the entire month of April to be Earth Month.

We are lucky to live in a time when the earth plays such a pivotal role in society. In this issue America remains among the leaders in the world for earth friendly awareness, practices and innovation. The so-called "greenies" of the world make their voices loud and clear: we need to end practices of pollution and make our world a clean place to live and thrive in.

The "greenies" have become a dominant demographic in the commercial world as well. I challenge you to pay attention during commercial breaks and note the number of eco-friendly products advertised. From house-hold cleaners to light bulbs, these products encourage the average consumer to develop greener practices. It is no secret that the purpose of advertising is to make money, but these product advertisements also generate an awareness of the earth and what we can do to keep it from deteriorating further.

As far as I know, we haven't found sustainable life on any other planet and certainly no where we can turn to if our planet dies. Our earth is precious and we need to take care of it. Despite the clear commercial gains from these kind of products, I'm a sucker every time! If a product is marketed as environmentally friendly, I know I'm more likely to consider it. And that's a good thing! If these products can just get us thinking of doing something good for the planet then we're better off.

Here are some of my favorite ways to go green:

1. Re-usable grocery bags- You can't walk in to a Walmart or Hy-Vee without seeing these re-usable bags at the check out counter. They are in-expensive and truly useful, if you can remember to bring them with you when you're shopping. Try keeping one in your car or purse, that way you'll always have one handy.

2. Turning off the lights when leaving a room- This is SO easy and applys to other things as well, like the TV. I can't tell you how many times I've come home to the lights on and a TV on in everyroom. What a waste! If you're not watching it, turn it off.

3. Earth friendly apparel- Here's my obligatory plug, I work for a company that currently has a campaign for Earth Day apparel (www.greaterthangoods.com). Not only are most earth themed garments made from recycled materials, they all have an excellent message and encourages others around us to be green!

This Wednesday, let's all celebrate the earth and really take it to heart that we can apply these things to our lives EVERY day! And remember Reuse, Reduce, Recycle!