There may be UFOs in Cork but today the rest of the world has its feet fixed firmly on the Earth. Why? Well today marks Earth Day – a day that celebrates this fab planet on which we live.

Originally founded in 1970 in the US, Earth Day is now a globally celebrated holiday. Today, billions of people around the world will put their focus on being environmentally friendly and doing small things that can make a big difference to our planet.

If you fancy showing Mother Earth a little love and appreciation, here are five simple ways that you can celebrate Earth Day. And hey, every little helps, so why not encourage your family and friends to take part in the festivities as well?

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5 Ways To Celebrate Earth Day

1. Plant a tree:

Trees can help to reduce air pollution levels

Planting a tree is one of the most common activities that you can do on Earth Day and it’s a simple gesture that can make a huge difference to our environment. Trees produce oxygen and help to reduce pollution in the air. Did you know that a single tree is capable of absorbing 10lbs of air pollution every single year? If you have a garden (and the space!) why not adopt a tree today and give it a loving home?

2. Get outside:

Get outside and appreciate the planet

One of the biggest parts of Earth Day is getting outside and really appreciating the beauty of our planet. Today is the perfect day to go for a walk on the beach or to take advantage of the many parks and/or nature reserves in our little country. Even if your day is super-busy, take ten minutes to get outside and catch a glimpse of nature.

3. Pick up litter:

Even picking up the odd bit of little can make a huge difference

If you’re out and about later and you come across a piece of rubbish, do your bit for the environment by picking it up and putting it in the nearest bin. It’ll take you two minutes and it will make a massive difference. Not only does litter look horrible, it can also have a seriously damaging impact on our environment.

4. Take the bus:

Try ditching the car two days a week

If it’s possible, use public transportation today. Grab a bus, hop on the DART, use your bike or walk. Did you know that leaving your car at home for two days a week will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1,600lbs a year? Oh and you’ll save a few euro on petrol as well!

5. Reduce your energy use:

Why not try switching all the lightbulbs in your home to energy-saving ones?

Not only is reducing your energy good for the environment, it can also help you to save money on your electricity bill which is always a plus. Make small changes by shutting down your computer when it’s not in use and turning off the TV and lights in rooms that aren’t being used.

Other ways that you can reduce your energy include: turning down the temperature of your central heating, only using your dishwasher when its full and drying your clothes on the washing line instead of the dryer. With a little creativity you can save energy and euros!

For more information about Earth Day and how you can help the environment, click here.