Did you know that April 22nd marks the 42nd anniversary of the celebration of Earth Day? I had no idea it was around that long, does knowing that change your mind about how important it is? For me it means I’m going to considering doing something with my kids especially after listening to Jane Goodall talk during my interview with her for the Premier of Chimpanzee about the earth and how we aren’t doing enough to bring about change. Earth day is a great start but it’s going to take us doing these things every day to make a difference.

This year, the Earth Day Network announced that the main focus of Earth Day will be to continue building the environmental movement and engaging new environmental activists around the globe. In order to make Earth Day a success, it is essential that each and every person set environmental goals, contribute and do their part including major companies like Hormel.

Did you know that about 80 percent of Hormel Foods’ product packaging by weight is recyclable and/or made from recycled materials? Over the past few years, Hormel has found many ways to reduce, revamp and change the size and material of their packages. In 2009, a half-inch in height was removed from each Jennie-O Turkey Store turkey burger carton, generating an annual paperboard savings of more than 68,000 pounds! More information on Hormel Foods’ package minimization efforts .

There are plenty of simple ways that you and your family can help that won’t feel like you are overhauling your lifestyle but they still make a difference. Jane Goodall says that we need to be aware of what we purchase and how it was made, just an FYI from taken away from my interview with her.

These tips are from Hormel:

• Plan an eco-friendly picnic! Skip paper plates and bring along utensils and dishes from home. Pack products that are known for their eco-friendly and sustainable packaging. One example is Hormel® Natural Choice® deli meats. As part of its commitment to be 100 percent natural inside and out, Hormel® Natural Choice® deli meats now has recyclable packaging made of 100 percent recycled material and they are the only national brand that features 100 percent recycled packaging.

• On your next trip to the grocery store, avoid the plastic by bringing along a cloth, reusable bag. Not only are they inexpensive, but they are a lot stronger than regular plastic bags!

• Take a shorter shower or brush your teeth without running the water. Not only will you reduce water consumption, but the energy costs associated with heating the water.

• Contribute to an online campaign through the Earth Day Network! There are also plenty of opportunities for you to volunteer on the actual day in your communities! http://www.earthday.org/take-action

• Last month, Hormel introduced a brand new eco-friendly package for Hormel™ Country Crock® sides! This new “in-mold” package design replaces the paper sleeve, placing the printed information directly on the tub, which saves more than 8,500 trees a year! Try one of the newly introduced flavors that include cheesy diced potatoes, four cheese penne pasta with broccoli,

This post enters me into a contest with Hormel Family as an ambassador.