First observed in 1970, Earth Day, held April 22, represents caring for our planet. It is a celebration of eco-friendly attitudes that often go overlooked year round. It is also a yearly reminder for the public to reduce, reuse and recycle.

In an age of oncoming climate change and mass pollution by industrialization, it is all the more important every year that we take the time to think of our planet. It's easy to get caught in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and forget about the bigger issues - like the planet we live on.

And it's easy to pollute, yet easy to reuse. It's about what one makes habitual. Parents and teachers sensitive to these issues instill eco-friendly habits in the young, and these positive habits will perpetuate and last for generations to come.

Recycling isn't the only or the best way to treat our planet right. The recycling of plastic can at times create more pollution than it is worth. However, the reuse of plastic products can save us all time, money, and our planet earth.

Reducing is also a very important way to help the environment. The Kansas City Transportation Authority's "Dump the Pump" promotion should remind us how reducing helps not only the environment but our pocketbooks. Besides taking public transportation, there are other alternatives, like scooters, hybrid vehicles, and my personal favorite, mopeds.

With a moped to travel Kansas City, there is little need to leave the forty-block radius which holds downtown and midtown. For as little as two dollars a week you can fuel up and cruise every street, with limited pollution in comparison to a car, let alone a giant, gas-guzzling truck or SUV. While there are some downfalls to mopeding - such as weather changes and wind - it's a good alternative to the family car and is one of the every-little-bit-counts that we try to remember on Earth Day.

All in all, we should do what we can and can what we do. I am speaking literally about canning foods - another great way to help your diet and environment. Whether you have a garden at home, shop at the farmers' market or local grocery stores, don't be afraid to buy veggies in bulk when on sale.

Do a little stewing and place in an air tight jar for whenever. This attitude will help us everyday and in many ways. Plant a tree, and let the world see what you can sow every day for Earth Day.

For more information on how to get involved, see the official Earth Day site at http://ww2.earthday.net/~earthday/

Copyright 2008 Metropolitan Community College