With eight billion people living on the planet, earth’s resources are stretched to its limits. Each of those eight billion people contributes to the pollution and reduction of resources on Mother Earth, but each person can also do their part to reduce their impact on the environment. An individual effort compounded by many people will go a long way to preserve the beauty and resources and make them available for generations to come. Here are five simple steps you can take to do your part and help the environment.

Invest in Solar Panels

People’s incessant need for energy is a big strain on the environment. All the coal and traditional electricity production contribute to the massive amount of pollution that plagues the environment. While you will never be able to eliminate your need for energy, there are steps you can take to work with the environment and not against it as you seek to power your home.

Solar panels are a fantastic way to harness the earth’s natural energy for your use. Buy solar panels for your home to reduce your utility bills and lessen your impact on the world around you. If you take advantage of government rebates and programs, you can reduce the out-of-pocket cost and begin saving in no time.

Buy Less

The more consumers purchase, the higher the strain on earth’s natural resources. Making the choice to buy less is one small step you can take to help maintain the environment for the future. The old adage “Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without” is a great philosophy to adopt in your efforts to consume less. Learning to repair your own clothes and household items is a valuable skill to learn, and if you do need to buy something, consider a trip to your local thrift store to see if they have what you’re looking for. Buying less is another way to help the environment that is also good for your wallet.

Recycle More

Recycling glass, cardboard, metal and paper is a fantastic way to do your part and help the world around you. Recycled items are turned into new items, which limits the number of new resources that production companies need to take from the earth. Many cities run recycling programs and will send a recycling barrel right to your home. If you don’t already have one, call your city to see if one is available. In the same vein, when you need to purchase new items, keep your eyes out for options that are made of recycled material to contribute on both sides of the process.

Skip the Car Ride

Carbon emissions from vehicles is one of the most harmful human effects to our Mother Earth. If distance permits, skip the car ride and opt for an invigorating walk or bike ride. Your body and the environment will thank you. When the trip is longer, plan to use public transportation. If you must use your car, try to group your errands together to limit the miles you drive.  

Organize a Clean-Up Effort

Littering is destructive to the environment and the trash of so many people adds up quickly. You can do your part to clean-up your community by organizing your family, friends, church or work colleagues to multiply your efforts. A clean-up effort can be very easy. Gather your group together, equipped with large trash bags and gloves and head out to a local highway or park. Volunteer work is good for the soul and your efforts will beautify the world around you, as well.

There is only one earth, and her resources are limited.  Many small efforts made by individuals, compounded over time, will help preserve the inherent natural beauty of this amazing planet.