Earth Day is an annual event celebrated on April 22nd that highlights the importance of environmental protection and conservation. The first Earth Day was observed in 1970, and since then, it has grown into a global movement involving more than 190 countries.

This year, the theme for Earth Day is "Invest in Our Planet," which focuses on the idea that we must heavily invest in climate-renewable and sustainable solutions to achieve a stable and reliable green economy for the future. This is spearheaded by campaigning for governments, institutions, and businesses to value and incentivise green innovations and practices, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainable practices in agriculture, transportation, and other industries.

Here are some ways in which you can consciously support climate change.

• Pick up litter if you see it lying around. Joining a regular clean-up group is also a great way to be more active in the community.
  
  
• Recycle when you can. Although plastic may have the recyclable symbol, it is not always suitable to do so. Most rigid plastics or PVC plastics can be recycled, but you should go to your local council website for a list of plastics they will accept.
  
  
• With Deforestation and an ever-increasing frequency of flooding and bushfires, it is now more important than ever to campaign for the conservation of endangered species and their habitats.
  
  
• Change up your weekly meal plan to include more plant-based dishes. According to Greenpeace, meat production produces more carbon dioxide pollution than driving and flying every vehicle and plane worldwide.
  
  
• Find plastic-less or recycled plastic produce and products. It can be difficult to find a banana that is not covered in plastic these days, but cling wrap is not currently recyclable and will go to a landfill.
  
  
• Plant and grow your own vegetables and herbs to cut back on the amount of household food waste each year.
  
  
• Think about a purchase before buying it. ‘Fast fashion’ contributes to 87% of landfill waste and usually consists of low-quality materials and microplastics that pollute rivers, streams and groundwater running off into our oceans.
  
  
• Advocate for climate action with your state and federal parliament representatives. You can also petition your local council, workplace, school, or university to make the change to renewable energy and sustainable operating practices.

By working together, we can make a positive impact and create a more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.