People from different parts of the globe make it a point to participate in what is popularly known as the Earth Hour. such a celebration has inspired millions of people to take part in helping save Mother Earth from the harsh effects of global warming. One's observance of the Earth Hour serves as a reminder to everyone that we have a commitment to help save our planet. No one-person is solely responsible for the slow but continuous destruction of the Earth and all its natural resources. The earth hour is a reminder that everyone is responsible.

Some might think that the Earth Hour is a mere ceremonial switching off the lights, but it is not. Rather, it is a way for people to express their pledge to protect the planet. But what happens after the Earth Hour? What do people do to actually help save the planet from further destruction?

There is no one-solution when it comes to taking care of nature, but there are a few things that can be done to save the planet beyond the Earth Hour:

  • Reduce the waste you make. Human beings can be called the ultimate waste generator. In fact, studies recognize the contribution of single-use plastic in polluting the environment. The goal is to produce a lesser amount of garbage at home because it would mean there would be lesser garbage in our landfills. The using of eco bags and bringing of own reusable bottles could go a long way.

  • Refuse to take what you don't need. How do you cut down on the waste that you produce? It's fairly simple -- refuse! Say no to plastic straws on restaurants, plastic juice containers and plastic packaging in food kiosk. When doing your grocery, refuse the bag and use eco-bags instead. It takes about 1,000 years for plastic bags to decompose and most of them don't really decompose.

  • Reuse the items that you have, even if they're old. When you come to think of it, some of your old items can be used differently and for another purpose. Sauce jars can be reused to store sugar or salt at home. Take those old jeans out and repurpose them into skirts or dresses for your little ones. Test your creativity and be surprised at how beautiful these old repurposed items can be.

It doesn't take an expert to figure out how to help save the environment. Be mindful of the purchases that you make and be responsible for your plastic usage and consumption. Whatever you do, remember that your small actions could be part of a bigger scheme of things. The small changes that you make in plastic usage at home could have a significant impact on how this planet survives.

Be the change that you want to see in people and surprise yourself with all the good things you can do to the environment.