ShareThisOfficially, Earth Day 2009 has come and gone. But it's something I observe 365 days a year.
Although we have not been very good stewards of the resources Mother Nature has bestowed upon us, I believe many of us are working harder than ever to correct the errors of our ways.
I believe that climate change is real and that we are the biggest reason for it. I also believe that collectively we can do something about it to protect and preserve our planet from greater damage -- and for the benefit of future generations.
To remind myself to make a difference every day in how I live and what I do for environmental stewardship, I wear a green wristband that says, "Growing a greener world." It also happens to be the tagline of my company. Even though my staff and I might do everything within our control to live more sustainably every day, we're also aware that it will take the collective efforts of us all if we are serious about turning the tide.
We are all in this together. Although I am well aware there are still many opportunities for significant improvement, I am encouraged by the efforts I see -- efforts by individuals, businesses, schools and governments around the world to eliminate environmentally unfriendly practices while implementing friendlier ways. To name one example: The organic vegetable garden that President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama just installed on the White House grounds is certainly worthy of great media attention, and hopefully an influential message to millions of people everywhere.
You and I can and should feel good about what we're doing for the sake of the planet. In spite of how small our efforts may seem, these collective measures really will make a difference, from eliminating plastic bags when we shop, to switching to rechargeable or electric tools for our lawn and landscaping projects, and simply composting and recycling rather than sending so much to the landfill.
Slowly but surely, integrating a sustainable lifestyle into our daily lives is becoming routine for many of us. Although there is still much to do, let's recognize that our efforts are making a difference and global momentum is building.
(Joe Lamp'l, host of "GardenSMART" on PBS, is a Master Gardener and author. For more information visit www.joegardener.com. For more stories, visit scrippsnews.com.)
THE GARDENER WITHIN
