How to Help Protect Endangered Species by Preventing or Reducing Pollution

Help endangered species by removing trash from animal habitats or public property near you. Remove debris such as plastic bags, plastic containers, automobile parts, soda cans and bottles from rivers, streams, lakes, beaches, parks, forests and nature conservancies. Place recyclable items in recycling containers and bring trash bags with you whenever you're outdoors enjoying nature to help return endangered species' natural habitats to their former beauty.

Refrain from using herbicides and pesticides. Such toxic chemicals are absorbed into the ground, thus affecting animals who make their home below the earth's surface. These chemicals can also find their way into sewer systems and waterways, which can harm or even kill numerous animal species. Rely on natural alternatives to keep your plants green and healthy.

Join a conservation organization such as the Nature Conservancy, the World Wildlife Fund, The Sierra Club or the Natural Resources Defense Council. Member benefits when you belong to organizations such as these include invitations to attend field trips and educational or networking events as well as opportunities to join other members to clean up pollution. The National Resources Defense Council also provides participants with an opportunity to send letters to government officials on behalf of animals. For example, members have urged pet stores to refrain from using dangerous pesticides in flea products with the goal of protecting children as well as animals.

Educate the children in your life about the importance of reducing pollution to help endangered species. Take nature walks and provide eco-friendly classroom activities for kids if you're a teacher, such as categorizing trash and explaining the impact each type has on endangered species (for example, plastic soda can holders are a choking hazard for birds). Books such as "Save the Earth: An Action Handbook for Kids," by Betty Miles, contain green activity ideas for the classroom. If you're looking for an entertaining and educational group activity to do on the weekend, invite kids over and take your child and her friends to a museum exhibit about endangered species. For example, The American Museum of Natural History offers opportunities for young visitors to become better educated.