Earth Day is on April 22, and there are many ways to help our planet.

Monarch butterflies are very important pollinators. To help them, plant milkweed in your garden. Milkweed is the only plant that they will lay their eggs on. You can buy it at a nursery near you. Consider planting native shrubs and trees that will not need as much water to survive. Not only do they provide shade but they also clear carbon dioxide from the air and replace it with oxygen. There are many kinds of trees to choose from depending on where you want to plant them.

Water is scarce in the desert, and it’s important to conserve it. You can save water by taking shorter timed showers and collecting rainwater. You can even put a bucket in your shower to catch excess water and give it to your plants.

Your food choices can also benefit the earth. Eating leftovers and what you already have in your pantry and fridge instead of throwing them away or buying more can reduce the amount of waste going to the landfill. If you can’t eat it, try composting it. Additionally, eating less meat protects forests and jungles that would be cut down to make space for cattle and their food.

Earth Day is coming. If we all chip in, we can make a difference. How will you contribute?