(Press Release from Keep Waco Beautiful)

8 Simple Tips for Celebrating Independence Day Sustainably
Keep America Beautiful believes that each of us has an obligation to preserve and protect our environment. Through our everyday choices and actions, including reducing, reusing and recycling, we collectively have a huge impact on our world. It’s a simple concept, but one with far-reaching effects. Take pride in your country and celebrate the earth this 4th of July and all summer long -- with these simple tips for a cleaner, greener America.

During your summer outings, don’t be a litter bug! Do your part by picking up litter you see and throwing it in a trash can. Take a disposable plastic bag along on your hikes and other outdoor activities.

Taking a road trip? Keep a litter bag in your car so you dispose of litter properly. "Disposable" plastic bags, if you have them, make great litter bags AND are an easy way to practice "reuse" (along with "reduce" and "recycle").

While getting that summer tune-up on your car, remember your tires. Check for proper inflation to save gas and emissions. If you're getting new tires, be sure tor recycle the old ones!

When heading to the grocery store before your summer BBQ’s, remember to take a reusable shopping bag instead of using a disposable one from the store. There are several local sources for fun and functional reusable shopping bags. If you have disposable bags, be sure to reuse or recycle them!

Staying hydrated in the summer heat is important. Consider purchasing a reusable aluminum water bottle. For big outings, take a larger water cooler and use it to refill your bottles.

Enjoying a beverage at your friend’s holiday bash? Be sure to recycle drink can, or bottle.

You may realize you need a new cell phone to stay in touch with family and friends this summer. Don’t forget to recycle your old phone. Contact Keep Waco Beautiful for a postage paid envelope to mail in your old phone for recycling.

Looking for a fun summer activity for your friends that will help the planet look more beautiful? Plant a Liberty Garden at home. Try to plant a collection of red, white, and blue flowers. Paint a patriotic mural on the side of your old shed and plant the flowers below. Be creative!