Earth Day is an annual event celebrated around the world on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection and to highlight environmental concerns such as climate change.

Here are some ways you can take action to reduce waste and celebrate Earth Day:

Food Waste Prevention – Create a weekly menu for cooking meals and only buy food that you need. Learn more at FoodDropLA.com.

Smart Gardening – Compost to divert food waste from landfills and enrich your soil. Visit SmartGardening.com to learn how.

Go Paperless – Opt to receive email or text reminders to pay bills electronically. Sign-up to stop receiving junk mail.

Household Hazardous Waste Alternatives – Make your own common household products such as window cleaners, spot removers, and pest repellents using ingredients found around your home that are chemical free. Find alternative recipes at CleanLA.com.

Bring Your Own – Carry your own reusable foodware and bottles everywhere you go to avoid using single use items.

Reuse – Donate items you no longer need and repurpose items such as using jars/containers for storing other items or scrap paper for notes, pet cage liners, origami, and more!

Recycle Right – Ensure your recyclables are empty, clean, and dry before placing them in your recycling bin. Remember, you can also put cash in your pocket by recycling CRV beverage containers.

Rethink – Find ways to reduce the waste you create by purchasing and disposing wisely. Consider if the item can be reused, repaired, or recycled.

Become environmental stewards by implementing these steps and encourage others to do the same to reduce waste as well as conserve energy and water.

Content provided by Los Angeles County Public Works. For more information and tips visit CleanLA.com. Don’t forget to follow @CleanLA on Twitter!