On March 28 at 8:30 PM, millions of people around the globe switched off their lights, climate control units, and television sets for 60 minutes. Regional governments in 172 countries participated in Earth Hour by powering down the lights that illuminate iconic structures. This show of solidarity for the natural environment was the largest the world has seen yet, and was supported by World Wildlife Fund events in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
Regardless of whether you participated in Earth Hour, another big environmental sustainability event that you can use as a catalyst to make green lifestyle changes is on the horizon: Earth Day, which is Wednesday, April 22, 2015.
If you want to honor Earth Day this year, here are a few ways you can celebrate.
Attend a Local Earth Day Event
Earth Day events are held in all major metropolitan areas. Browse area listings, and attend an event you support. Educational fairs, farmers markets, street clean-ups, and gardening expos are examples of events you can find throughout the country.
Plant a Tree
Planting a tree is the quintessential Earth Day activity. If you’re interested in doing so, look for tree-planting campaigns in your community. Depending on your preference, you can plant a tree yourself or donate to have one planted in your name. You can also consider joining a community garden, starting an herb garden on your balcony, or plant an oxygen-generating houseplant to keep air quality high in your apartment.
Clean, Donate, Recycle
Spring is cleaning season. If your apartment needs some TLC, Earth Day is a great time for your annual deep clean. This year, keep your spring cleaning trash to a minimum by donating and recycling as much of the refuse you set aside for removal as possible.
Wear Green or Brown
Show your support for the environment by sporting your trendiest earth-toned clothes. If you have a tree-hugging getup that meets your office dress code and you’re brave enough, go for it. But even subtle fashion statements can show other eco-conscious individuals that you’re on the same page and can make good conversation starters for others who are less aware of Earth Day.
Pledge a Green Lifestyle Change
There is no better day than Earth Day to pledge your commitment to making a green lifestyle change. Examples of easy, impactful pledges you can make include:
- Walk or cycle to work one day a week
- Vow to take public transport more often
- Walk rather than drive when traveling short distances
- Be more conscious about your recycling habits
- Keep reusable grocery bags on your person
- Carry a coffee or tea mug and water bottle so you can say “no” to disposable cups
- Pick up and dispose of five pieces of litter you encounter each day
Together, we can keep our streets looking great and the air we breathe clean. Make this Earth Day memorable by contributing to the environment in one way or the other. Every effort you make towards conserving energy and environmental resources help!
Do you have exciting Earth Day Plans? Share them in the comments below.
View All Posts by Jason Ernst