Every year on April 22nd, communities around the world celebrate Earth Day. This holiday is dedicated to raising awareness about environmental issues and advocating for the protection of our planet. Sparked by widespread concern over pollution in the 1970s, Senator Gaylord Nelson created Earth Day to force the issue on a national agenda. In December 1970, Congress authorized the creation of a new federal agency to tackle environmental issues, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
This Earth Day, let’s embark on a journey to reconnect with nature and foster a deeper appreciation for our environment. Join us in exploring various ways to celebrate Earth Day; below are some creative and active ways you can celebrate this year:
Start a garden!
One of the most rewarding ways to connect with nature and reduce your carbon footprint is to start a garden. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a small balcony, there are options available for you to begin. If space is limited or you’re a novice gardener, try container gardening with herbs, vegetables, or flowers. Not only will you be reducing your carbon footprint, but also you will save money and enjoy the fruits (and veggies) of your labor.
Attend an Earth Day event.
Earth Day events are an excellent way to engage with your community and take part in collective environmental efforts. Check local listings, Eventbrite, or local newspapers for events in your area or consider hosting your own Earth Day gathering. It could be exploring the outdoors with friends, a neighborhood cleanup, a sustainable cooking workshop, or documentary screening followed by a discussion on environmental issues. By participating in or organizing these events, you will contribute to positive change and inspire others to take action.
Host crafts for kids.
Engaging children in Earth Day activities is crucial for instilling a sense of environmental responsibility from a young age. These crafts and activities are a great way to get the conversation started and promote creativity. There are endless possibilities for hands-on activities that teach kids about the importance of Earth Day and protecting our planet. For a list of ideas, visit this link.
Check out the EPA’s Earth Day website.
The EPA provides valuable resources and information to help individuals and organizations understand the importance of environmental conservation. Explore EPA’s Earth Day website, here, to discover educational materials, volunteer opportunities, and events in your area.
Join us in celebrating Earth Day! Let’s reflect on the progress made, recommit to protecting our planet, and inspire future generations! Together we can make a difference and ensure a brighter, greener future for all. Happy Earth Day!
Written by: Gabby Bonilla