Caring for Our Planet

Earth is the only home we have. Everything we need — clean air, clean water, food, and shelter — comes from our planet. When we damage the Earth, we damage the very things that keep us alive.

What harms our planet

• Littering — trash pollutes land and waterways and harms animals that eat it.
• Wasting water — leaving faucets running uses up the fresh water supply.
• Cutting down too many trees — forests are habitats for animals and help clean the air.
• Example: A plastic bag thrown on the ground can end up in the ocean and harm sea turtles.

What helps our planet

• Recycling — turning used materials (paper, glass, plastic) into new things instead of sending them to a landfill.
• Planting trees — trees absorb carbon dioxide, produce oxygen, and create habitats.
• Saving water — turning off the faucet while brushing teeth, taking shorter showers.
• Picking up litter — cleaning up trash protects animals and keeps habitats healthy.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

• Reduce — use less. Buy only what you need. Use less plastic.
• Reuse — use things again. Bring a reusable bag. Refill a water bottle.
• Recycle — put the right things in the recycling bin so they can become new products.