Ten Tips for Celebrating EARTH DAY By Jackie Schatell
T
his year marks the 51st annual Earth Day celebration. It is now celebrated in over 193 countries. The themes change yearly, and this year’s theme is Restore Our Earth.
Earth Day helps us remember that our connection to nature is essential for our health and well-being. Prior to the pandemic, Earth Day was celebrated with large festivals, parades, races, and more. This year, there are many virtual and masked small group ways to celebrate helping the planet. Below are 10 ways you can do your part on Earth Day:
1
Reduce, reuse, and recycle.
This is a great opportunity to spring clean. Instead of throwing things into landfills, repurpose them by donating to Facebook groups like the Buy Nothing Project, and Free Stuff marketplace groups, or to the needy.
2
Volunteer.
There are hundreds of ways to volunteer that can be found online like participating in small, masked group cleanups.
3
Educate.
You can educate yourself and others on ways to heal the earth by reading, watching videos and talks.
4
Conserve water.
Earth day is the perfect time to intentionally start conserving water while brushing teeth, showering, and watering the lawn.
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5
Choose sustainable.
If you aren’t already doing so, start using recyclable bags for food shopping and reusing plastic water bottles.
6
Use energy efficient light bulbs.
By using energy efficient bulbs and shutting off the lights when you leave the room, you are helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
7
Plant a tree.
Trees provide us with food and oxygen and help us combat climate change. Plant a tree in your yard or donate to a place that is planting trees. You will be doing your part to help the planet.
8
Use non-toxic chemicals.
By using non-toxic chemicals, you will be helping to send less chemicals into the waterways.
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9
Bike more and drive less.
Make Earth Day the day to start putting this practice into motion. You can get your family in on the action by planning family rides. You will be getting some exercise, while decreasing emissions.
10
Save pollinators.
The bee and monarch butterfly populations are dwindling. We need these species for the pollination of our fruits and vegetables, not to mention the honey from bees. To do your part, plant friendly habitats for them in your garden like willows, fruit trees, and clover for bees, and pesticidefree milkweed for monarchs to eat and lay eggs on.
We only have one planet, and it is dying. Be the change you want to see in the world, and let your children see how you are making a difference. You will be creating tomorrow’s responsible citizens and leaving them with a healthier place to live. Happy Earth Day!
