Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/easy-ways-to-help-animals-earth-day/

Earth Day is celebrated by over a billion people in 193 countries. Every year on April 22nd people reflect on how they can help make the planet a better place for all who call it home.

Sadly, human actions cause a lot of damage to the environment and animals. Many species are facing extinction due to habitat loss caused by deforestation, pollution, lack of food sources, overhunting, and so much more.

We must act now to ensure these animals are around for future generations. Join us in rebuilding what we have destroyed.

Check out seven ways you can help animals, as well as the planet, on Earth Day below.

Pick Up Litter

This simple act makes a world of difference to the animals that live in parks and beaches. Be sure to pick up any trash you see and properly dispose or recycle it. Find a cleanup scheduled near you or start one of your own through The Great Global Cleanup. The worldwide campaign aims to “continue clean ups every day of the year for a brighter, greener, and cleaner planet.”

Plant A Tree

Forests provide homes to hundreds of animals and the air we breathe. However, 15 billion trees are cut down every year. At the current rate of deforestation rainforests could completely disappear in a hundred years.

“80% of the world’s terrestrial plants and animals live in forest and are losing their habitats to deforestation. Loss of habitat can lead to species extinction,” states One Tree Planted.

They also shared the sobering fact that 28,000 species are at risk of going extinct due to deforestation.

We all can help by planting a tree.

Make Your Backyard More Wildlife-Friendly

Plant native flowers that attract and feed bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Another easy way to help is to NOT pick or mow down dandelions, bees need them.

Don’t forget to feed the birds and provide a water source. Help them even more by giving them a safe place to roost with a birdhouse. Then sit back and marvel at the beauty of our winged friends.

Avoid Harmful Fertilizers & Pesticides

Pesticides, known as neonicotinoids or neonics, are deadly to birds, bees, and other vital insects who consume them. They are commonly sprayed on crops and can be found in insect sprays, seed treatments, and various other garden products.

“Unlike other pesticides that remain on the surface of treated foliage, these pesticides are taken up by the plant and transported to all tissues – including the leaves, flowers, roots and stems, as well as pollen and nectar,” reports American Bird Conservancy.

Choose a natural alternative that will deter pesky bugs but not harm bees. Learn more about how to protect bees and birds here.

Go Meatless

Try going meatless for a day, week, or even longer. There are countless benefits to a plant-based diet for human health and the environment. Check out some amazing meatless recipes by One Green Planet here.

Ditch Plastic

Single-use plastics are being banned in multiple states and cities as a way to help combat the plastic pollution in our oceans and forests. Plastic bags, straws, and other trash end up killing countless marine animals and birds who mistake it for food or become entangled in it.

Reusable bags are a great and easy way to help and show the world you care.

Take Action

Be a voice for the voiceless. Sign a petition to save endangered species and preserve vital habitats.

Learn more ways you can make every day Earth Day by visiting earthday.org.

Be sure to share this list with your friends and family. Together we change the world.

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Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog