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Although we currently face a handful of environmental crises, such as global warming, air pollution, the depletion of natural resources, water pollution, and the loss of biodiversity, as a nation, country, and planet we may be better off than we could be, thanks to the inception of Earth Day. Since April 22, 1970, Earth Day has been an annual celebration that sparks awareness and change among people of all ages across the globe. The first Earth Day celebration began with 20 million Americans, from coast-to-coast, demonstrating against the degradation of our environment.
Over 45 years later, the environmental changes that need to be made still stand out in the latest gas leak in California, the constant threat of climate change, and the polluted water supply in Flint, Michigan. As residents of the Earth, we often feel powerless and hopeless, but by raising awareness and making commitments to becoming more eco-conscious, we can continue to make our Earth a healthier and safer place to live.
What Will You Do To Show Your Support on Earth Day?
Even if you consider yourself to be an environmental steward, there are always way to improve, spark change, and inspire others to be more environmentally friendly. While Earth Day is just one day a year, you should live the mission every day. Here are some ideas to show your support or celebrate Earth Day:
- Start a Pledge at Home, School, or in the Workplace: Think of it as a fun challenge, almost like a New Year’s resolution of sorts. If you start an environmental pledge at home or even at work, you’re urging everyone to share their concerns and get involved. For example, you may pledge to take five minute showers while your kids pledge to turn off the water while brushing teeth. If you share your pledges with others, you’re more likely to follow through when working together.
If you want to get a head-start on pledging to turn out the lights when you leave the room, don’t forget to participate in Earth Hour Day.
- Attend an Earth Day Event: Even if you feel pretty tapped into what’s new in the eco-friendly world, you may always learn something new at an Earth Day event. Learn about new eco-friendly products, learn how to be more sustainable, or meet like minded people. There’s no such thing as too much education or information, particularly on something so important like our environment.
- Give Up on Bottled Water: So many people are inspired to drink more water for their health, but rather than filling up a bottle of their own they continue to purchase cases of bottled water. Even if you are recycling your plastic water bottles, it’s time to change your water habits. Don’t like the way your tap water tastes? You can buy relatively inexpensive filtering systems or purchase refillable jugs of water at the supermarket.
- Get Involved or Organize in Your Community: A community really shines when they come together and participate in something that will improve the lives of everyone in the community. Whether you are an organizer or a person who would rather sign-up, get involved in planting trees, picking up garbage, building birdhouses, or planting gardens.
