The planet is facing a variety of environmental issues such as climate change, deforestation, and pollution. At the same time, we know how much kids want to make a positive difference to our world. It’s not only beneficial for the environment, but it also provides kids with personal and societal benefits. It’s essential to instil eco-friendly habits in children so that they can develop a sense of responsibility, become responsible stewards of the planet, and help preserve it for future generations. Many eco-friendly habits also have health benefits, so by adopting them kids can live healthier lives. Overall, becoming an eco-hero provides kids with amazing opportunities to learn about science, environmental issues, and sustainability and can inspire them to pursue careers in related fields. In the spirit of Earth Day, discover 15 steps your child can take to protect our planet and become an eco-hero:
- Reduce your plastic usage by carrying reusable lunch bags, water bottles, and shopping bags.
- Recycle paper, glass, and plastic waste.
- Use a compost bin to dispose food waste.
- Turn off lights and appliances (e.g. TV) when you’re not using them.
- Save water by only using what’s necessary: taking shorter showers (4 minutes or less) and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth.
- If you can, walk, cycle or use public transportation to get out and about, rather than using the car.
- Participate in eco-friendly initiatives in your community (e.g. street, park or beach cleanups to remove litter).
- Use rechargeable batteries in your toys.
- Use refillable pens and pencils.
- Feed the birds in winter.
- Keep your local habitats safe by sticking to the paths.
- When your cat goes outdoors, put a bell on its collar so that vulnerable wildlife can hear it coming and make their escape.
- If you find a bug at home, take them outside and release them to nature.
- Before you throw something away, stop and think about what else it could be used for (e.g. egg box or toilet paper roll make perfect craft materials).
- Give your old books and toys a second life by donating to the library, school or charity.
Remember, even small actions can have a big impact. So help your child start with just one or two changes and gradually incorporate more eco-friendly habits into their daily routine.
