Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists podcast, where we explore all things nature-related! In this episode, Debbie and Laurie delve into Earth Day 2024, which falls on April 22nd with the theme "Planet versus Plastics." They discuss the multifaceted approach to going green, highlighting the five Rs: refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle.     They also emphasize the importance of composting to reduce food waste and share insights on how individuals can contribute to the Planet versus Plastics initiative. As Edward Everett Hale once said, "I cannot do everything, but still I can do something." Join us in doing our part to make the Earth a better place.     We appreciate your feedback and invite listeners from 115 countries, all 50 states, and especially our listeners in the Carolinas to share their thoughts on the podcast and what they enjoy most.     If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.     Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.   Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.   Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists.  We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don’t forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.   Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to info@downtownpodcasting.com.   While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company  in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow Good Cup Coffee on Instagram and look for them at the Matthews Community Farmer’s Market  this Saturday morning.