Although the United States accounts for only 4% of the world’s population, our country is responsible for one fourth of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions.[1] These emissions lead to an increase in overall temperatures and global warming.
Greenpeace reports that the Amazon rain forests are being destroyed at the rate of 26,130 square kilometers per year, which is the same as approximately 6 football fields per minute.[2] More than two thirds of this destruction is illegal and unauthorized by the government.
Reducing, reusing, and recycling are important for the earth. In fact, the energy saved by recycling one aluminum can is enough to power a TV for three hours. Recycling aluminum cans each year saves enough energy to light Washington, D.C. for 3.7 years.[3]
We all share the responsibility to keep our world safe and beautiful and protect the earth’s resources and ecosystems so they can be enjoyed for many years in the future.
Making the earth a better place to live can happen when everyone makes earth-friendly choices every day. Children of all ages can learn the importance of being good stewards of the earth and our resources. Families can learn about ways to conserve energy and resources, slow down global warming and keep the earth healthy and beautiful. There are many opportunities for children and families to contribute.
GET INVOLVED!!!
Are you concerned about global warming? Endangered species*? Protecting wetlands and/or beaches? Keeping your neighborhood park clean and safe? There are many ways to help out! How can you and your family volunteer together to help protect the earth? Click here for a few ideas to get started!
Would you like to find some local and national organizations that are helping with different projects to help the environment? To search and get involved in family volunteering activities, please register here for more information!
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflections and Activities
Other Resources
*The health of the environment is linked to our own survival and comfort as well as the animals who also share the earth with us. (See also our section on Ways to Help Animals for more ideas!)
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