Earth Day is just around the corner, and while it’s a beautiful opportunity for reflection and connection, it’s also a gentle reminder that our daily actions matter. Living in alignment with the planet doesn’t require perfection — it starts with conscious, everyday choices that ripple outward in powerful ways. So here’s how to start preparing for Earth Day.
If you haven’t read our previous blog, have a look at: https://thecreativechoice.org/earth-day-is-coming-a-gentle-invitation-to-honour-our-planet
Waste is still a global issue — and a local one too
According to Our World in Data, the world generates over 2 billion tonnes of municipal solid waste each year, and that figure is projected to grow. Of this, at least 33% is not managed in an environmentally safe way. In the UK alone, over 9.5 million tonnes of food is wasted annually — enough to fill Wembley Stadium multiple times over (WRAP, 2023).
It’s easy to feel helpless in the face of numbers like that. But here’s the truth: small actions, done consistently, can and do create meaningful change — especially when they become part of our normal routines. And that means YOU and I changing what we do on a daily basis to tackle the problem.
And it’s not just about individual responsibility — local systems matter too. In Birmingham, UK, a recent dispute between the city council and waste contractors left thousands of bins uncollected for weeks, raising serious concerns about public health, cleanliness, and environmental responsibility. These disruptions remind us just how connected we are — and how vital it is to advocate for properly funded, fair waste services in our communities.
Here are some simple things we all know we SHOULD DO, but it’s always useful to be reminded!
Buy less, choose well
Reducing waste starts with reducing consumption. We buy far more than we need in the West and there are many families in other countries who go without, when really there is enough food on the planet to feed everyone.
Before clicking or physically ‘adding to basket’, pause and ask: Do I really need this? Could I borrow, mend, or find it second-hand? Reducing our consumption is the most powerful way to reduce waste — and often leads to more meaningful choices. And perhaps, you could send the few pounds you’ve saved to a local or worldwide famine charity… just a thought!
Choose reusables over disposables
Swap plastic bottles, bags, and takeaway cups for long-lasting alternatives. Keep a fabric tote in your bag, carry your own water bottle, or switch to beeswax wraps instead of cling film. These tiny habits really do add up — one reusable coffee cup can save up to 500 disposable cups per year.
Reduce waste in the kitchen and bathroom
Could your plastic shampoo bottle be replaced with a solid bar? Are there refill options for your cleaning products or dry foods? Take a moment to review what’s lurking under your sink or in your bathroom — it might be time to make the switch.
Understand your recycling system
I’m constantly reminding my children about this – recycling has to be clean and dry! Don’t be a lazy recycler; make sure you understand what can and cannot be recycled.
Recycling only works if it’s done right. Every council has slightly different rules, and contaminated recycling is a major problem — a greasy pizza box or the wrong plastic can send an entire bin to landfill. Spend 10 minutes checking your local guidelines and stick them up in your kitchen for the whole household to see.
Start separating your rubbish properly
Many of us still mix food waste, plastics, and compostables in one bin. Getting into the habit of separating out recyclables, compostables, and general waste is one of the simplest shifts you can make — and it can significantly reduce the amount that ends up in landfill.
Tackle food waste one meal at a time
Much of the food we throw away could have been eaten. Leftovers, slightly wilted veg, and even offcuts can often be transformed. Try a “use-it-up” day this weekend where you cook only with what’s already in your fridge or cupboard. Bonus points if you compost your scraps!
This is another one that I’m fighting in my house! If we don’t eat everything the first meal then we try to find a way to recycle it – soups and smoothies are a great way to use up veg and there are so many recipes online to help nowadays.
Honour Mother Earth with your intention – then take ACTION!
This Earth Day, let’s focus on the small things. Not because they’re easy or trendy, but because they work. Because they matter. Because they are part of a much bigger healing. Because you know it’s something you should do and because you want to do it!
Whether you change your bin system, reduce your plastic, or just take the time to understand where your waste goes, it all counts.
This isn’t about shame or perfection. It’s about awareness, action, and living in integrity with the beautiful planet we call home.
Let this week be your invitation to begin. 💚
Let me know what you will do in the comments below, however small. It’s all worth it.
I love how this article emphasizes that small, consistent actions can lead to meaningful change. The suggestions to buy less, choose well, and opt for reusables are practical and impactful. It’s also great that you highlighted the importance of understanding local recycling systems—clean and dry recyclables make a big difference. Overall, this is a wonderful guide to help us all live more sustainably.
Hi Sophie. Thanks for taking the time to read my article and leave your kind comments. I’m pleased that you liked it and it reminded you of some small things that we can all do every day to make a difference. I’ve been caught out with the recycling in the past which is why I’m more careful now.
I really appreciate this reminder as Earth Day approaches! It’s easy to underestimate how small, simple shifts in our daily routines can add up to a meaningful impact. One thing I’ve personally started doing is swapping out single-use plastics for reusable containers and bags — it felt like a small change at first, but now it’s second nature and I notice how much less waste I produce.
I’d love to hear what simple eco-friendly habits others have adopted lately. Are there any new ideas or swaps that surprised you with how easy or effective they turned out to be? It’s interesting to see how mindful habits around waste reduction can ripple out into other areas of life too, like consuming more intentionally or supporting local, sustainable businesses.
In my opinion, honouring the planet shouldn’t be limited to just one day — but Earth Day is a great opportunity to reflect and recommit. Thanks for sparking this important conversation!
Hello there, AJ. Thanks for stopping by and I’m so pleased you liked the article on Earth Day. There are so many small things we can do. For me personally, food waste is a big one as is reducing single-use plastic. I have changed my shopping habits a lot. In the past, I used to do a big weekly shop but now I usually just have enough in for 2 or 3 days which cuts down on the things we throw away a lot. I’m also much more conscious about leaving lights on and turning down the heat and putting on a jumper instead. Small steps but they’re easily manageable.