4 Ways I’m Going Green On My Birthday

Sunday is Earth Day—the day when more than one billion people from around the globe come together to celebrate Mother Earth and raise awareness on environmental issues.

April 22 just so happens to also be my birthday.

And while I’d consider myself to be pretty “green” all year round, here are 4 ways I’ll be acting like an eco-maniac this Sunday.

Recycle My Slider Phone

Yes, it’s one step up from the flip phone. But it’s no iPhone. The Samsung Sway slider phone has been sitting in my car for about four years now. It’s time to let go. Time to recycle that little bit of history. Luckily, I found four local places hosting cell phone drives through AmericanCellPhoneDrive.org. Interested in doing the same? Click HERE for locations.

Plant Potatoes

A couple weeks ago, I discovered two full bags of potatoes in my cabinet … they were from Thanksgiving. And even though supermarket potatoes are typically treated with chemicals that prevent sprouting, these babies sure did grow. (Thank you 99 Cents Only Store!) What does one do with sprouted potatoes? Plant them! I just so happen to have an empty field in my backyard and from what I’ve read, it’s not that hard to grow your own potatoes. ... I’ll let you know how it goes.

Ride My Recycled Bike

A couple months ago, my roommate gave me an old department store bike from the early '80s. It had somehow ended up in his possession. And he passed it on to me! We went to the in Highland Park and picked up a few parts for $16. A couple touch-ups and Voila—I now have a working bicycle. So instead of burning fuel on the 110 Freeway this weekend, I’ll be cruising along with the cool kids.

Hit Up

Nothing says happy birthday like a good thrift store find. On my 24^th birthday, I picked up a yellow lace Victorian hat from a resale shop in Chicago. This year I’m hoping to find a few new records to add to my collection. I love for its old-school music, unique furniture and vintage jewelry. Plus, I have a few bags of clothes to donate since I just finished spring-cleaning.

Patch Asks: Enough about me. How will you be going green on Earth Day?