The Earth doesn't need us to take care of it. the Earth will be fine, regardless of what we do. It is humans and other life that won't be fine..so let's put it in proper perspective and tone down on all of the feelings of nobility: you're not taking care of the Earth, you're taking care of human and similar life's ability to exist on Earth.
The Earth will never be "sick" or in need of our care...it only needs the Sun and other planets. It doesn't have to be plant-filled, or swishing a bunch of water around..the air doesn't have to be any temperature in particular, rich in clean oxygen, and can be as filled with CO2 as it can be...it's still gonna spin and zip around the Sun at 65k MPH...ask Venus and them...not a stitch of life (as we know and perceive it) and they're doing just fine.
What do you think? Feel free to contact me and let me know your thoughts.