Earth Day serves as an annual reminder of the importance of taking care of our home and appreciating the environment.

While large-scale initiatives are crucial, sometimes it's the small, everyday changes that collectively make an impact on our planet. In the fast-paced lifestyle of a college student, I know it can be easy to forget to be mindful of these things. Today, I’ll talk about Earth Day reminders that are simple actions anyone can incorporate to contribute to a greener Earth and explain why it’s so important to get outside!

1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

The age-old motto of "reduce, reuse, recycle" remains as relevant as ever. By minimizing consumption, reusing items, and recycling, we can make a huge decrease in our ecological footprint. Opt for reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and containers. Last year, I invested in a couple of reusable grocery bags and found they are not only better for the environment, but also make it easier to carry heavy loads!

2. Save Energy

Did you know that saving energy not only helps the planet but also saves money? It can be easy to forget but try to turn off lights and unplug electronics when you're not using them. If it's nice outside, open your windows instead of using the air conditioner. The Earth (and your wallet) will thank you!

3. Walk, Bike, or Carpool

We are so fortunate to live on a walking campus like Auburn, so take advantage of it! Getting around without driving a car is not only good for the environment but also for your health. Walk or bike to class whenever you can. If you live off-campus or need to go somewhere farther away, consider carpooling with friends. Fewer cars on the road mean less air pollution, and it’s fun to walk and be with friends!

4. Go outside!

Getting sunlight is crucial for our overall health and well-being. Sunlight exposure helps our bodies produce vitamin D, which is essential for strong bones, a healthy immune system, and mood regulation. Additionally, sunlight boosts serotonin levels, improving your mood and promoting relaxation. So, be sure to spend some time outdoors soaking up the sun's rays for a natural boost to both your physical and mental health!

By incorporating these Earth Day reminders into your daily life, you can make a meaningful contribution to the environment, help create a more sustainable world, and improve your lifestyle! Let's work together to make every day Earth Day.

Be well, Auburn.