What will you do this Earth Day?
From organized clean up events to backyard tree planting, the options for “celebrating” this year’s Earth Day are endless. Here are some ideas for honoring our planet and its environment.
Downcycling Used Clothing
We are fairly well versed in the concept of upcycling items…using things for a new or different purpose like plastic food containers as seed starting planters. But what exactly is downcycling? Downcycling is a form of recycling in a way that uses the materials from one product and creating one of lesser value. It continues the recycling process and keeps the already-used materials out of landfill.
One method that is increasing in popularity is the downcycling of used clothing that is of too poor condition to be worn again. Some companies like For Days offer an eco-conscious option of sending used clothing and fabrics to them (think paint-stained, torn, or otherwise unusable items) for processing and use as things like insulation or padding. Users pay to purchase their “take back” bag and receive the same amount in store credit to purchase new clothing.
Until May 1st, For Days is hosting a Trash Trophy Sweepstakes in which each “take back” bag of worn clothes that submitted gets an entry for the $10,000 prize.
Planting Native Species
Wanna know what’s better than planting a tree on Earth Day this weekend?
Planting a tree species that is native to your area.
Whether you’re planning on trees, grasses, or other plants as part of this year’s Earth Day celebration, give your local ecosystem a boost by selecting species that are native to your area. Wildlife will be happy with the species they are accustomed to, you’ll decrease the spread of invasive species that outcompete native ones, and your plants will thrive as they are especially well suited to the climate and conditions where they are naturally found.
Reach out to a local company that specializes in native species. Some have entire garden plans available to make the best use of an area based on sunlight, moisture, and soil conditions.
Recycling Research
Perhaps you believe you’re doing the right thing by putting that wax-coated milk or juice carton into your recycling bin since it has the recycling symbol on its side…
But did you know that each recycling company has its own rules about what it will or won’t accept? Worse yet, some places will toss your recycled items (the good ones included) into landfill if too many unacceptable items are contained in a load.
So, go online or make a phone call to find our what your local recycling company accepts and what they do if recycling is “contaminated” by items they don’t accept. See what other options you have locally for items like plastic shopping bags, batteries, and electronics.
Red Worms
If you don’t have a flock of backyard chickens to devour your food waste, consider looking into red worms. These powerhouses turn your food waste into powerful castings that can improve your garden with all the nutrients. This is a great option for families with children. Not only do they get to have cool pets, they learn about the nutrient cycle, and maybe even have a built-in project for the annual science fair as well!
There are multiple options for purchasing red worms and setting up an environment where they can prosper.
Mason Bees
If you haven’t heard of the honeybee crisis facing our nation, it’s time to crawl out from under your rock. Pollinators are critical for our food supply and are struggling due to habitat loss, exposure to pesticides, and parasites like the varroa mite.
While keeping honeybees can require a major investment of time and money, providing a habitat for mason bees is easy peasy. They are great pollinators for your garden, use inexpensive “houses,” and don’t require any maintenance. Even Costco usually. has some form of mason bee house for sale each spring. You’ve may have seen the circular ends of bamboo lining a simple wooden frame and wondered what they were for.
Consider hanging one of these mason bee houses in your yard to keep your garden happy!
Cleaning Supply Makeover
We all have preferred cleaning supply brands that we love. Perhaps it’s one your mom used when you were growing up. Or it has this amazing scent that you can’t get enough of (even if it’s just masking odors). Have you done your research on the chemicals they contain? How about the damage they cause to your local water supply?
Even if you’re using eco-friendly brands, do they come in single-use plastic containers?
There are so many options available on the market now that nearly eliminate harsh chemicals and waste. From dissolving hand soap pellets that create an entire bottle of liquid soap to bars of shampoo that completely cut out the plastic bottle, check out some new options for keeping your hair, body, laundry, dishes, and house clean without taxing the environment.
Not Just Earth Day
Here at OPM we care about the Earth and sustainable living every day of the year.
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