The birds are chirping, the weather is warming up rapidly, and spring is in the air! The changing of the seasons is the perfect time to celebrate Earth Day by making our homes a little more eco-friendly. Here are some ways you can help reduce your impact on Mother Earth:

1. Install low-flow showerheads and faucets: These fixtures can reduce your water usage and lower your water bill.
2. Install a rain barrel: Take advantage of those April showers! Installing a rain barrel can help you save on water costs when watering your plants, and homeowners who install rainwater systems can even be eligible to receive tax credits!
3. Switch your bulbs: Making the switch from regular lights to energy saving bulbs is an incredibly easy and inexpensive way to reduce energy bills and your carbon footprint.
4. Reduce plastic use: Reusable shopping bags are a great start in reducing plastic consumption and they are continuing to grow in popularity. Not to mention, they are super easy to keep folded in the trunk of your car for your next shopping trip. 
5. Use eco-friendly cleaning products: Many cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. Switch to eco-friendly cleaning products to reduce your impact.
6. Plant native plants: Not only do native plants require less maintenance and water, they provide food and shelter for local wildlife. Luckily Hampton Roads is home to an array of beautiful native plants like Turk’s Cap Lily, Common Partridge Pea, and Yellow Jessamine.
7. Start composting: Composting is an excellent way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

By applying these tips and tricks, we can all do our part to reduce our impact on this planet and make a more eco-friendly environment! 

If you are looking to get outside to celebrate, there are plenty of great parks in the area perfect for getting in your outdoor fix. Check out these popular favorites for a hike or picnic: 

1. First Landing State Park
2. Elizabeth River Trail
3. False Cape State Park
4. Noland Trail
5. Currituck National Wildlife Refuge
6. Stumpy Lake Natural Area
7. Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Want to go the extra mile? Take a trash bag and gloves along with you to pick up any litter you may find along the way. The local wildlife will thank you! Happy Earth Day!