EARTH DAY 2008

I am a recycling fanatic, there I’ve said it. But you already knew that. So, I couldn’t wait to do a piece on EARTH DAY on my BLOG.

What is Earth Day? It’s the day we celebrate the importance of the environment and to encourage civil action. April 22 is the day of observance nationally, But, I try to do my part every day. So how did this all start?

It was initiated in 1970 by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson, who started a “teach-in” to protest the government’s environmental ignorance. It certainly made an impact. This eventually led to legislation including the Environmental Policy Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Clean Water Act.

If you’re reading this, you’re wondering, what is Mike expecting of me? Simple, change a little something regarding your purchasing and disposal habits.

• The average person generates 4.5 pounds of trash every day.
  


• The EPA estimates that 50 percent of solid waste is recyclable, while only about 30 percent is through current programs.
  


• As of 2006, there were approximately 8,660 curbside recycling programs.
  
  


• An aluminum can is recycled and back on the grocery shelf to be purchased again in as little as 60 days; a glass bottle takes as little as 30 days.
  
  


• One gallon of improperly disposed motor oil can contaminate one million gallons of fresh water.

Purchase goods with less packaging and from renewable sources. Separate and recycle all your waste at the curb where the service is provided. Recycling reduces the amount of waste in landfills, and prevents hazardous materials from leaking into our soil and water systems.

Every town and city throughout the country will offer some form of community action. I hope all of us take advantage of the great weather and step up our custodial duties in our neighborhoods. This is a day to stop and think about your affect on the environment and what you can do to help protect it. Don't leave me out here everyday by myself!