Today is Earth Day. So here we are, the ones who keep one of the environment's biggest enemies functional, trying to figure out what we can do to recognize this important day. Cars do so much harm to the environment, it's hard to imagine how they would fit into Earth Day and how you as a home mechanic can do your part.

Luckily one of the most effective ways to combat harmful vehicle emissions is something you should be doing anyway -- regular maintenance. Maintaining your car's systems allows it to operate at maximum efficiency, reducing emissions. But there are other things you can do. Did you know that you can recycle your car battery? People who've been working on their own cars for years always seem to have a battery, or four, laying around. You can't throw them in the trash, it's illegal, so they just sit around. As they sit, they may leak acid in both liquid and gas form. This is dangerous to people and the environment. Take your old car batteries to a proper recycling center, you'll prevent harm and the contents of the battery can be reused.

Click here to find a battery recycler in your area. Recycling center search provided by Earth911.org.