Make your world cleaner and greener

Now that winter seems to have packed its bags and left town -- for a few months, at least -- it's time to enjoy the spring scenery. The grass is getting greener, and taller, every day. Trees are budding and flowers are bursting forth with color. All of this natural beauty should help to remind us of our responsibility to the environment.

The annual Earth Day observances just wrapped up, including a huge celebration at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo last weekend. Some communities are planning spring recycling days. In Fairview Park, for example, residents will have an opportunity to safely dispose of hazardous substances like mineral spirits and caustic household cleaners, as well as to get documents shredded this weekend.

Fortunately, most of us are more environmentally conscious now. It took legislative action on the local, state and national level to get the momentum going. We're driving more fuel-efficient cars. Businesses are required to monitor emissions into the air and water or face penalties. And many counties in the state require emissions tests on cars and trucks in order to renew license plates.

Our children, some as young as preschool, are learning about recycling and renewing the Earth. The lessons are integrated into their education Sometimes, they even act as a conscience for their parents.

Next year will be the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, so we're proposing a challenge. Think about how you can help reduce waste and reuse items to help renew the Earth. If you're already an avid recycler, encourage others to get on board.

Keeping the Earth healthy and green is everyone's responsibility. That's what we think. Share your opinion on this editorial or other topics by sending a letter to the editor to ckovach@sunnews.com, faxing your letter to (216) 986-6071 or mailing it to Carol Kovach, editor, at the Lakewood Sun Post, 5510 Cloverleaf Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44125. All letters must include the author's name, city and a daytime phone number for verification....