This year, Earth Day’s focus is investing in our planet, continuing the 2022 theme. EarthDay.org, the global organizer of Earth Day, engages governments, institutions, businesses, and more than 1 billion citizens who participate annually in Earth Day to do their part.

What does it mean to invest in the planet? It’s about allocating time, money, innovation, and social commitment to improve the health of the Earth. Even small actions count.

Earth Day is April 22, but there’s no need to wait or limit your actions to that day. Here are 7 ideas to help build a more sustainable future for our planet and all its inhabitants.

1. Plant trees.

Trees are powerful tools for fighting the climate crisis. Join a local tree planting event or donate to tree planting efforts, such as The Canopy Project.

2. Reduce plastic pollution.

Plastic pollution impacts every single organism on our planet. Think beyond recycling by committing to wean yourself off disposable plastics. Check out the work of Earth Day’s Great Global Cleanup.

3. Vote for the Earth.

Democracy only works when everyone votes. Vote Earth encourages individuals to use their voting power to support government policies put forward to protect our environment.

4. End fast fashion.

Visit Fashion for the Earth to learn about the fashion industry’s environmental impacts and the importance of sustainable clothing. Choose planet-friendly fabrics like organic cotton or hemp, and pledge to shop for quality over quantity.

5. Eat a plant-based diet (even part-time helps).

Animal agriculture accounts for at least 15 percent of global human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. Find tips and recipes here.

6. Speak up.

Educate yourself on climate science and solutions, then share your knowledge and advocate for action. Use your social media channels, speak at your city council meeting, or write a letter to the editor of your local paper.

7. Attend or host an Earth Day event.

Whether it’s a neighborhood cleanup, trivia night, or documentary viewing party, events are a fun way to get others involved.

Looking for more ways to invest in our planet? Here are 52 actions and tips.

“Earth Day is about the billions of individual actions taken worldwide towards a greener, more equitable future,” said Kathleen Rogers, President of EarthDay.org. She maintains that we have the money, the ingenuity, and the resources to solve climate change—if we all take action.

For more information on Earth Day 2023 and ways to get involved, visit: EarthDay.org/earth-day-2023.