Have you ever wondered where the concept for Earth Day originated and why we recognize it year after year? At some point we would love for Earth Day to be a celebration of how we’ve responsibly restored the planet and evaded catastrophe, but we aren’t there yet; by the end of this article we’ll invite you to be a part of something that has the potential to make a massive positive impact beyond this day.
Where Did Earth Day Originate?
Earth Day was responsible for launching a wave of action including the passage of environmental laws in the United States. On April 22, 1970, nearly 10% of the U.S. population at the time staged a protest against the environmental ignorance that had led to massive pollution of water and air.
The event led to a response from lawmakers to create environmental legislation including The Clean Water, Clean Air and Endangered Species Act. The Environmental Protection Agency was also formed in response to this act. 50 years later, Earth Day is still being recognized and holds major significance across the world.
How Can I Make a Difference?
This year the theme for Earth Day is Climate Action. While we can’t celebrate Earth Day by participating in typical activities like climate strikes, clean-ups, and restoration projects, there are still ways to celebrate Earth Day at home. Here are a few ways you can make a lasting impact while celebrating Earth Day at home:
- Plant a tree. Trees absorb the harmful CO2 and emit oxygen, helping us to breathe cleaner air. You can plant your own tree, donate to organizations like the Arbor Day Foundation or support businesses who partner with the foundation.
- Reduce Waste. You can do this by limiting the use of single use plastic, planning your meals and learning the rules of recycling.
- Plant a garden. This can help beautify your space, clean the air and serve as a place to compost food waste. Don’t have space for a full backyard garden? Get started with a small space garden, perfect for a patio or balcony.
While getting involved in Earth Day activities makes a difference, it’s important to ensure that our efforts do not stop here. On this 50th anniversary of Earth Day, we’re inviting you to take your efforts beyond this day of awareness and integrate environmentally conscious choices into your everyday life.
Take the pledge to make everyday Earth Day by committing to one eco-friendly behavior for the rest of the year. You can commit to recycling at home, reducing waste and energy use, switching to products sold by environmentally responsible companies or keeping your community clean. Whatever pledge you make, we want to hear about it. Post your pledge on social media and tell us what you’re committing to for the rest of the year. Don’t forget to tag @ecoimpactcollective and use the hashtag #IMPACTCOLLECTIVE so that we can see how you are making an impact!