Many people tend to take our planet for granted and forget that it is up to us as a society to save it from ourselves. As nations around the world work together to reduce our carbon footprint and foster a better environment, you may feel the urge to join in and protect the planet. Looking out for the environment may seem like a big job for one person, but you don’t need tights and a cape to help save it.

10. Recycle your cans and bottles – According to an activist website, 38 billion bottles are wasted every year (banthebottle.net). Make sure to recycle your plastic bottles, or better yet, invest in a reusable one.

9. Turn off the lights – You don’t have to fumble about in the dark, but don’t have all the lights on when you don’t need them.

8. Pick up after yourself – This may seem like an obvious task, but you’d be surprised how many people litter without care (check out the school hallways after lunch!). Your waste could end up in a storm drain and find its way to the ocean.

7. Start a garden – You’d be shocked how much gas is wasted shipping those vegetables from the farm to the packaging facilities to the stores. And remember, plants create clean air!

6. Carpool – You and your friends can reduce your carbon footprint by carpooling to school. The fewer vehicles on the road, the less car exhaust being released into the atmosphere.

5. Save water – You won’t miss it until it’s gone. Save water by turning off the faucet when doing tasks like brushing your teeth or washing the dishes, even soaping up in the shower.

4. Unplug your appliances – Even when they aren’t in use, appliances plugged into the wall waste electricity.

3. Reuse, reuse, reuse –Don’t throw out your plastic bags. Repurpose plastic bottles and cans.

2. Bring your own bags – Paper bags kill trees. Plastic bags pollute the earth. Make it simple and bring your own reusable bags to the market when you shop.

1. Plant a tree – More trees equals more oxygen, and last time I checked, that’s a good thing.