Simple steps to help care for the planet

April 22 is Earth Day, an event that's been celebrated worldwide since 1970. Help spread awareness of conservation and environmental protection by joining the Earth Day celebrations. Here are 5 tips to help you plan your own Earth Day festivities.

1. Attend or conduct a tree planting ceremony
Many schools and businesses plan formal tree planting ceremonies, but if you have the space, why not carry out your own? Watching the tree you planted grow year after year will not only serve as a reminder of the need to preserve our environment, but of the family and friends you invited to help honour it. Organize a memorable teambuilding experience with the Field and Stream Rescue Team.

2. Adopt a stream, field, or forest
Choose an area that is in need of sprucing up, and organize a neighbourhood clean-up committee. Launch a flyer campaign or take out an ad in a local newspaper to get the word out. In addition to beautifying your surroundings, you will help foster a sense of fellowship in your community. Help realize your community's natural potential at Environment Canada's website.

3. Challenge schools, businesses, or neighbours to a conservation contest
Nothing encourages conservation more than a friendly challenge. Devise a goal, set of rules, and a prize, and get to work! Experience the thrill of healthy competition with the help of EcoAction teams.

4. Organize a fund-raiser in your community and donate the proceeds to a local conservation group
Draw up your own sponsor sheets and canvass door to door. Try to incorporate environmental awareness into your fundraising by planning a charity clothing drive, an organic bake sale, or a Hike-a-thon.

Learn more about becoming an environmental educator at the Harmony Foundation.

5. Go for a walk and enjoy the outdoors
In our frequently hectic lives, it is easy to forget about nature. Find a hiking trail, provincial park, or backyard, and absorb all the wonder Mother Nature has to offer. Discover how to reconnect with all things natural at the Nature Canada's website.

Find out more about Earth Day and how to be more earth-friendly year round at the Earth Day Canada website.

Want more tips on making a difference for the environment? Click here to sign up for the CanadianLiving.com Green Challenge. We'll send you daily eco-friendly living tips throughout April, plus you could win an Eco-Leather bag from Roots!