Earth day was started April 22, 1970 to help bring awareness about our planet's health and state. Silent Spring written by Rachel Carson in 1962, helped to push this awareness.

Although a majority of people have become more conscious about the current state of our planet, in terms of global warming, climate change, and CO2 emissions, there is still much to be done.

As a citizen of the USA, I am dismayed by the government's decision to pull out of the Paris Climate Accord, as it was one of only two countries to do so. The US decision was made in favor of coal based fuels to help the mining industry. These fuels are not a renewable energy resource, and have hurt the well-being of the planet considerably. We have, decision after decision, found ways to not put the earth first, which needs to stop now!

There has been a debate that the detrimental effects on the planet's health are not caused by the pollution caused by humans. This debate seems to be settled around the world by the recent Coronavirus pandemic. As country after country announced "Stay-at-home" orders, enforced Social Distancing, shuttered industries, closed shops and severely reduced travel and other transportation of goods, a major benefit began to take over the earth. In many areas wild life began flourishing again, without the forceful hand of people having any say.

The evidence was clear. City after city began posting pictures of empty streets, shopping areas, and clear blue skies. It appears that what humans could not do, Coronavirus is forcing upon us. It is crystal clear that if we are not helping to put an end to climate change, we are naturally going against it. We are an invasive species that only regard our needs and wants so much so that we forget that we live with so many other species.

Ways that you can help save the planet:

• Turn off your computers at night.
• Always recycle your glass.
• Don't waste napkins.
• Plant your own tree.
• Shorten your shower time.
• Buy things second hand.
• Buy local products.
• Turn off lights when you are not in the room.
• Don't use plastic bags.