Malaysian Nature Society department of communications head Andrew Sebastian said their awareness on conserving the environment was not as high as in other countries in the region.

"However, there has been an increase in awareness in the last five to 10 years and we hope that it will gain greater momentum in the future," he said in comments he made in connection with Earth Day yesterday.

Sebastian recommends simplifying the daily lifestyle by using public transport more and using cotton bags instead of plastic ones.

To mark the occasion, some companies were encouraging their employees to be more eco-friendly.

Ikano, for example, is hosting a five-day exhibition on green living and the importance of healthy eating.

Earth Day was founded on April 22, 1970 by US Senator Gaylord Nelson as a nationwide grassroots demonstration for the environment.

On that day, 20 million Americans took to the streets, parks and auditoriums to demonstrate for a healthy, sustainable environment.

Today, Earth Day is observed by more than 500 million people and national governments in 175 countries.

Global Environment Centre (GEC) manager Chee Tong Yiew said the significance of the event was that people had only one Earth and this was their home.

"If we don't take the necessary measures to reduce environmental disasters, it is like destroying our own home," he added.

The people can help reduce carbon emissions by practising simple steps around the household.

"Good practices start from the home, so it is important that there are good role models in the family," Yee said.

"Take containers along with you when eating out in case there is extra food. You help save on styrofoam, a non-biodegradable packaging."