[Photo credit by Noah Buscher on Unsplash]
Celebrating Earth Day | April 22
Earth Day aims to raise awareness about climate change and global warming. The day inspires action toward the protection of the environment and focuses on the need for conservation. Here are our top 10 activities to show some love for our home, planet Earth:
1. PLANT SOMETHING! If you can plant something outside, do your best to make sure it’s supportive of local wildlife, especially pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds, who will benefit from this good deed. But even if you can’t plant outside, bringing some plants into your home will clean up the air in your home, so you can breathe easier.
2. GET OUTSIDE! Go for a hike or a bike ride. Find a trail, follow it. Is your area famous for a particular bird or butterfly? Find it! Is there a significant landmark? Go to it! Just get out there and show some appreciation for the beauty around you - but sure to leave it as you found it!
3. CLEAN UP! Most areas have some organization where you can volunteer for neighborhood cleanup and beautification. Plus, in these socially distanced times it is still a good way to get out there and make an impact in your community, and do good by the planet.
4. UPCYCLE. Feeling crafty? Find a way to upcycle old furniture, clothes, or whatever else you may have lying around. It’s the perfect way to keep things out of landfills while having fun and getting those creative juices flowing!
5. RECYCLE. Start recycling at home! If you already do, find out how to implement or encourage a recycling program in your workplace, at your kids' school, or somewhere else significant for you.
6. LOSE THE PLASTIC. Switch out plastic plates or silverware for biodegradable or reusable ones. Lose the single-use plastic sandwich bags and opt for silicon. Find ways to reduce the waste you make on a daily basis.
7. GO VEGETARIAN FOR A DAY. Did you know the meat industry is a leading contributor to greenhouse gas emissions? Even if you don’t want to, or aren’t in a position to commit to a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, committing to a single meatless day a week can have a huge impact. Use Earth Day to jump-start this practice!
8) UNPLUG. Commit to using no electricity for a day, an evening, or even an hour! Every little bit can help to limit the use of fossil fuels and creation of harmful emissions. Not to mention we could all use a break from our various screens!
9) SUPPORT SUSTAINABLE BUSINESSES. Find a business whose ethos includes a focus on the environment and support it! Whether it’s the restaurant that uses organic food or leaves out the plastic for take-away, a business that sells recycled products, or something else, show them your appreciation and that they’re on the right track by giving them your business.
10) EDUCATE YOURSELF. Spend a little time doing some research on the state of the Earth, what needs to be done, and how you can help!
