As Mother’s Day approaches, we all must take a moment to appreciate the one who gave us life and makes each day a little bit brighter: Mother Nature.

When you stop by Kroger for a fresh bouquet of flowers or sign a card made from recycled paper on May 13 (you are welcome for the reminder), you are taking advantage of the earth’s bounty. But, just like when benefiting from the labors of our moms, we must give back as well.

One way to do your part is to plant bee-friendly flowers such as lavender or stop using pesticides and other chemicals in your garden. Honeybees and wild pollinators are in rapid decline due to destruction of habitat and climate change, and without them a third of the world’s food supply would be depleted.

Also, you could reduce your food waste, considering the average person wastes 40 percent of their food every year. Whether you choose to cook smaller portions, eat more leftovers, donate to food kitchens, or start a compost pile, do not let those Mother’s Day brunches go to waste.

The fashion industry is one of the most destructive to our environment. With constant overturn of trends and fast-paced, high-volume production in poorly regulated countries, our world’s waterways are being polluted with chemicals and dyes and our landfills are piling up with hardly worn textiles.

Whether you choose to thrift your mom a scarf or DIY a pair of earrings, a clothing swap or a second hand option can help save water and reduce pollution.

Reduce your trips in the car to save Mama Earth. Whether you take advantage of the weather and go closeby for a walk or cycling adventure, or carpool with friends or family, you could save 260 gallons of gas and $858 on gas annually if you share a car ride.

It may not seem like a lot, but each habit or realistic goal you achieve each day can make a world of difference. Do not forget to appreciate your mom and Mother Nature in every thing you do.