We have just one planet: Earth! Today is the day to celebrate it. Earth Day takes place every April 22nd, and this year’s theme is “Our Power, Our Planet.” There are so many incredible ways to mark this date, from taking part in a local event, to starting a compost bin or getting involved with a community garden. Here are 5 ideas to get you started on your own celebrations! Happy Earth Day!
1. Spring Cleaning
It’s spring! As much as our closets likely need a cleaning, so too does our planet. Trash is everywhere, it seems, especially after a long winter. Once concealed by the snow, bits of plastic, old containers, bags, and much more are now on full display. Not a great look, to have trash caught up in your daffodils. So, grab a bag and start collecting, and put that trash where it belongs: in your bins.
2. Get Growing
Even if you’ve never grown a single thing, today is a great day to start! Grab a packet of seeds, or pop down to your local garden center to pick up some plants. Or perhaps there are flowers already on your property you could divide, and share with others? Get your hands in the soil and add a little something special to the Earth’s beauty.
3. Learn to Compost
Composting is an easy way to recycle your food scraps, and produces a wonderful soil amendment for your gardens and landscapes. This Earth Day, why not take the chance to learn how to compost? Or if you already have compost bins, take the day to reassess your setup and consider any possible improvements.
4. Community Events
There are organizations across the country offering a multitude of different Earth Day events. Is there something going on in your backyard that you could take part in? Check out your local community pages or newspapers. There are many wonderful people looking to connect and support their local community’s environment. What adventures might await?
5. Get Outside
Whether it’s for a picnic or a hike, get outside and enjoy the beauty of the world around you! It’s good to take a moment and appreciate our environments, listen to the birds sing, and soak up some sunshine. Did you know getting outside is not only good for your physical health, but can reduce stress and improve your overall feeling of well-being? Even if you’re quite busy today, try to take a moment to step outside and enjoy the Earth.
Earth Day is an opportunity to celebrate our environment and take positive action in support of our planet. Take part in its care by picking up trash, growing a garden, composting, or any number of other activities. As Carl Sagan stated, “Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot, the only home we’ve ever known.” Happy Earth Day!
