Small Actions, Big Impact: 8 Ways to Help the Planet for Earth Month

The biggest opportunity for change on Earth is us.

Today’s greatest environmental threats — the climate crisis, habitat loss, and shrinking biodiversity — are largely driven by human behavior. But just as our actions can be the greatest threat to the planet, they can also be the most powerful solution.

Individual choices, multiplied, can drive lasting change. From what we buy and eat to how we travel and talk about the climate, our everyday choices shape the systems around us. When enough people make conservation-friendly choices, we can shift markets, influence policies, and protect wildlife at scale. 

In observance of Earth Month, here are eight ways you can be part of the change:

1. Talk about the climate.

Although 88% of Americans support climate action, two-thirds rarely or never talk about it. Next time you’re catching up with a friend, chatting with neighbors, or spending time with family, try weaving in a question or observation about how climate change is affecting your local community. Has the weather felt different lately? Are pollinators or birds showing up earlier or not at all? Is wildfire smoke becoming a seasonal norm? Talking about it normalizes concern and inspires action. Check out our monthly Climate Conversation articles for discussion topics and resources.

2. Practice trip chaining.

Be strategic about stringing your commute and errands together so that when you use your car, you go to as many destinations as possible in one trip, rather than taking a lot of out-and-back trips. It’s not only good for the environment, but your wallet, too!

3. Replace single-use plastic with reusables.

Every single piece of plastic ever made still exists today. If we continue the current trajectory we’re on, by 2050 there will be more plastics in the ocean than fish. Single-use plastics break down into tiny pieces which are found in the stomachs of animals, and in our soil, water, and food. Invest in reusable glass or metal food storage containers and commit to using a reusable water bottle.

4. Start a plogging hobby.

Hailing from Sweden, plogging combines physical activity with picking up litter. The term is derived from “plogga,” a mashup of the Swedish words for jog, “jogga,” and pick up, “plocka upp.” Plogging can be done solo or with a group and can involve jogging, walking, paddleboarding, cycling, or any other activity you enjoy. Since the first plogga was held in Stockholm in 2016, over 3 million people have participated in plogging in over 100 countries. Keep the momentum going and help remove trash from your local environment.

5. Rewild your lawn.

Over 40 million acres in the U.S. now make up residential lawns and are no longer part of a functioning ecosystem that supports wildlife. Lawns offer minimal food and shelter for birds and small animals while consuming nearly 3 trillion gallons of water a year, 200 million gallons of gas to power lawnmowers, and 70 million pounds of pesticides. Replace some or all of your lawn with garden beds or native trees, plants, and flowers. You’ll conserve water, avoid poisoning the ecosystem, provide crucial shelter and food for wildlife, and attract the beneficial insects birds need to thrive.

6. Make eco-friendly swaps in the bathroom.

Choose tree-free toilet paper made from bamboo, opt for toothpaste tablets, and switch to bar versions of shampoo, conditioner, and soap!

7. Model respect for wildlife.

Something as simple as negative perception can lead to illegal hunting or harm to wildlife. If certain species make you uneasy, like snakes or sharks, for example, be mindful of how you talk about them so you don’t pass that fear or dislike on to others. Caring is contagious, and even small shifts in the words you use can help people (and especially the children in your life) understand that every species plays an essential role in maintaining nature’s balance.

8. Support WildAid.

For over 20 years, WildAid has worked to eliminate demand for wildlife products in the world’s largest markets by employing behaviour change campaigns to educate consumers and inspire actions. Donate to help us protect vulnerable wildlife.