April 22 has been set aside every year to recognize Earth Day. According to the Earth Day Network based in Washington, DC, more than 1 billion concerned people in about 192 countries will take part in Earth Day activities and events. Because it involves everyone over the entire world, it is always the largest civic observance.

The main purpose is to raise awareness about how important it is to protect the earth and to learn about environmental issues. Earth Day falls on a Sunday this year. That means the entire family will be available to participate by doing something together without having to go to work and to school.

Below are five easy things that everyone can do in recognition of the day that was organized on April 22, 1970, as a day to protect the earth.

1. Spread the word

People can do something as simple as spreading the word. They can start by sending an eco-friendly free Earth Day eCard to family members and friends online. No trees have to cut down to make this small gesture to remind people what day is being recognized.

2. Plant a tree

Speaking of trees, a family project could be for parents to teach their children about the Environment. Planting a tree this year is a good idea. The family can see it grow, and It will be a reminder of Earth Day every time they look at it.

3. Help clean up a park

A group of people in the community could get together to clean up the neighborhood park or local beach.

If you don't have time for that, you and your family could clean a street while you are out walking your dog. You could make it a family activity that the little ones will enjoy. While you are picking up trash from a park, beach or a street, make sure you pick up all things made of plastic since plastic pollution is a main concern for the environment.

4. Take public transportation

After you finished other Earth Day activities, you and your family can take public transportation to your favorite National Park where the admission is free for the entire day.

Do not drive your own vehicle. Public transportation is free in some cities. Check in your area to see if it is free.

5. Get involved in games and fun activities

You do not have to work to celebrate Earth Day because you can play games and do fun activities throughout the day with your family and friends. You can start by having the whole family go green by dressing up in green outfits. Eat something green at every meal. It might be hard to find something green to eat for breakfast, but a child could read Dr.

Seuss' "Green Eggs and Ham." For other meals, make green drinks out of punch or Kool-Aid. Also, have green jello or lime sherbet for a dessert. Play a trivia game with every answer being about something green.

The above list has some easy suggestions. There are dozens of other activities and events that you can take part in on Earth Day.
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