A local zoo will be celebrating a day recognizing the importance of caring for the environment this weekend.

The Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington will be holding their annual "Party For the Planet" Earth Day event, stressing the importance of caring for the environment. Superintendent Jay Teztloff says they want to encourage young people to start caring for the planet at an early age.

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'Party For the Planet' will also emphasize the importance of protecting animals and their habitats. Tetzloff notes small tasks such as turning of lights and water can make a big difference.

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Recycling cell phones can also help to preserve the environment. According to Tetzloff, area in Africa have been greatly affected by the need for cell phone parts.

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Party For the Planet will take place this Saturday April 18th at the Miller Park Zoo from 1 pm to 3 pm and is free with admission.

For more information, you can visit www.millerparkzoo.org or find them on Facebook.