The sun is shining brightly overhead. The leaves are rustling, birds are chirping and the beautiful blue waters are crashing onto the shore. Picture it. It’s a beautiful vision, right? Frankly, it’s not going to last much longer unless proper precautions are taken this very second. Each day the hole in the ozone layer becomes larger, trees necessary for clean oxygen are being cut down by the thousands of acres and water is being polluted with waste and sludge runoff from factories in towns just like ours. This may seem harsh, but that’s the reality of it.

Heard often, the term "going green" is used to describe what people should be doing every day. But what does this mean exactly? According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Nation, "going green" is usually used in reference "to the heightened awareness of using the Earth’s resources more efficiently." Today, however, the phrase includes the popular expression "reduce, reuse, recycle"- reduce waste, reuse what you can, and recycle what you cannot in an effort to conserve natural resources, reduce landfill size and reduce pollution.

Simple steps can be taken each day to ensure that our generation and generations to come will live a long, healthy life. Earth Day, which was founded by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson, takes place April 22 and was designed to create awareness and appreciation for the Earth. What started as a small group in 1970 has turned into a worldwide movement that attracts more one billion people each year, making it the largest event in the world. This year marks the 40th anniversary of Earth Day and today more than 180 countries proudly celebrate it.

On April 30, Mr. Bartels along with members of various clubs will be planting 1,000 trees in the school forest as part of an effort to expand the forest. The school had orginally purchased ten acres of land to plant, but so far has only used about three acres. The school forest is used in the education of students.

Sure, at first, tasks may seem time-consuming, like sorting papers from plastics or unplugging appliances when not in use. And yes, eco-friendly or organic foods and household items appear to be more expensive at first glance, however, in the long run, these things will not only help save money and energy, but will help reduce the giant carbon footprint being left behind.

While going green has become a hot topic, it may seem excessive to some. Junior Brooklyn Biese said, "I feel like Earth Day has become pointless. We talk about going green all the time, yet what are we really doing to help out the Earth?"

So, the next time the temptation to throw a fast-food bag out the window strikes, think of what is being left behind for future generations. Doing simple steps to help reduce your carbon footprint can not only benefit this amazing world, but it can help you out as well.