If you’re concerned about the endangerment and extinction of animals, there are some minor changes you can make in your daily routine to help. Remember that not one person can stop animal endangerment, but everyone can do something to help.

 

Clean up litter

Pick up after yourself, but pick up after others as well. When you see garbage on the ground when you’re out and about, make it a point to pick it up and throw it away. Not only does this keep animals from getting trapped or injured by trash, and keeps their home clean, others may see you and feel inspired to pick up garbage as well.

 

Participate in Meatless Mondays

Animal agriculture is responsible for around 14 percent of the world’s greenhouse gases, which directly contributes to global warming, which plays a direct part in the endangerment of countless species. Consider reducing your meat and other animal byproduct consumption to help keep the air clean. While giving up meat entirely can be hard, cutting it out of your diet one day a week is a reasonable compromise.

 

Plant a garden

Planting a garden helps wildlife conservation in multiple ways. 1. Plants take in carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, meaning they help keep the air clean for animals to breathe. 2. Growing your own fruits and vegetables means less pollution will be created from trucks carrying produce to grocery stores, and 3. A garden gives bees, butterflies, birds and other local wildlife a place to nourish themselves and find shelter.

 

Reduce your carbon footprint

Pollution is one of the most severe threats to wildlife and something you can help reduce. Carbon dioxide emissions cause the ocean to become more acidic, harming marine life, and air and water pollution have a significant impact on the well-being of land animals. Some ways to reduce your footprint are to keep your house a little warmer in the summer and cooler in the winter; instead, rely on blankets or light clothing to maintain your body temperature. Only use your car when necessary; if you’re only going to the convenience store two blocks away, take a walk and enjoy the fresh air (that you’re directly contributing to).

 

Use your voice to inspire others

If wildlife conservation is something you’re passionate about, make sure other people know it too. Do your best to educate your friends and family about the lifestyle changes they can make that will help keep animals from going extinct. Talk about your favorite charities that are doing their part for wildlife conservation, and consider asking those close to you for donations for that charity instead of a birthday or holiday gift this year.