Holidays are a great excuse to celebrate, right? Earth Day should be no exception. Since it’s a new(ish) holiday, there really aren’t many Earth Day traditions. Yet.
Just like Christmas has trees and Independence Day has hot dogs, why not create some traditions for Earth Day? Instead of heading to the party store for plastic plates and decorations you’ll throw in the trash, try some of these fun, easy, and completely green ways to celebrate.
1. Make your yard an oasis
Every garden contributes to a stable and healthy future for the planet. And did we mention gardening is therapeutic? If you’ve always been meaning to start, let this year’s Earth Day be the push you need. If you’re a beginner, a great place to start is your local Cooperative Extension Service. You can find yours by searching here.
2. Give your time and talents to organizations
There are so many organizations working to create a sustainable future for the planet. Your local community can be a great source of information. Donate your time and talents to those that are actively seeking volunteers for at home or online opportunities. Due to social distancing, organizations like EarthDay.Org are going completely digital.
3. Learn how to compost
Composting is one of those things that we know has measurable benefits for the earth, like reduced waste in landfills. But how exactly do you do it? If you have the right materials and proper knowledge, a lot of household waste can be diverted to composting. According to CompostNow, 60 percent of our waste is compostable, and deciding to compost can save 35 percent of the usable land currently taken up by landfills. The data is there, so why not give composting a try? Check out our free at-home composting guide.
4. Shop sustainable brands
IMPACT COLLECTIVE is a group of forward-thinking brands wanting to make an immediate and positive impact by neutralizing their environmental footprint. IMPACT COLLECTIVE members participate in programs to reduce their carbon, plastic, water, and/or energy footprints. Look for the IMPACT COLLECTIVE seals when you shop. With every purchase, you are supporting brands that are actively making a positive environmental impact.
5. Get out of the house
Yep, a simple but truly effective way to celebrate. Even if you’re not actually doing much, just being outside in your yard or on your porch is a great way to remember what we’re actually working for.
While you create new traditions, make note of what works, what feels good, and what’s the most do-able. Before you know it, you’ll find yourself looking forward to next year’s “Earth Day season!”