5 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day
World-wide people are celebrating Earth Day in a variety of ways. With an ever increasing knowledge of how fragile our earth is, from wildlife to ecosystems, more people what to do their part. So, I’ve compiled a list of ways to celebrate Earth Day, today and every day!
Earth Day began in 1970 in the United States after a movement began of a more environmentally conscious people. And it went global in 1990 to establish a global consciousness out of the need to make real efforts to combat environmental issues. Many of these issues have now become a part of the everyday actions of citizens and leaders world-wide. Major issues include; global warming, deforestation, pollution of our air and oceans, and the biodiversity crisis – with approximately 10,000 species going extinct each and every year.
Earth Day has developed into what it is today “as the largest secular observance in the world, celebrated by more than a billion people every year, and a day of action that changes human behaviour and provokes policy changes” explains EarthDay.org.
But please don’t be discouraged! Each of us can do our part and make a difference. So, how can you help? How about celebrating Earth Day by giving back.
Ways to Celebrate Earth Day
Plant a Tree
Over 15 billion trees are lost every year. If every year we can plant just one tree just imagine the impact we could make. With populations of Canada and the United States over 300,000,000 people combined we alone can make a huge effect on deforestation. And while you’re not out planting trees make sure to purchase FSC certified products. FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified items ensure that those products are sourced from responsibly managed forests that are under strict environmental and social standards.
Participate in a Clean Up
After the snow melts, under the glow of the beautiful spring sun we are confronted with the garbage that’s been hiding under a coating of white. Many cities, towns, and municipalities organize clean ups every spring, usually around Earth Day, to get their citizens out and picking up all the waste, cigarette butts and other trash that litters our parks, beaches and other areas. Grab a friend, your kids or go solo to help pick up and celebrate our beautiful green Earth. If you can’t find a local clean up organize your own or just get out in your neighbourhood with a garbage bag and some gloves to clean up.
Plant Wildflowers
With the staggering decline in our honey bee population we are now seeing the signs of their loss. Everything from the cute adorable mammals to the “pesky bugs” need to be protected. Did you know that one third of all vegetables and fruits produced are pollinated by honey bees? So, if you want to keep eating those delicious wholesome goods than consider doing your part to encourage their population to increase. One thing you can do is plant wildflowers in your backyard to attract bees and other pollinating species. Some of these flowers include;
Also, please refrain from picking dandelions, they are a huge resource of honey bees.
Reduce Your Emissions
Always a great way to reduce your footprint on the Earth and emissions is to find alternative modes of transportation. Consider using public transportation to work or carpool. If you live close, how about taking your bicycle or walking to work. Even deciding to leave the car at home and walk to the corner store is not only great for the environment, you’ll be rewarded with fresh air, the joys of getting outside and being active. Most of us are accustomed to the convenience of our vehicles, try thinking of the bigger picture.
Purchase Fair Trade Products
What is fair trade? The World Fair Trade Organization defines fair trade as, “a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency, and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade.” The aim is that by buying fair trade products instead of purchasing from big box stores and other such retailers you are ensuring that the money you are spending is more in line with giving the people who have made those products a respectable wage to help support themselves and their families.
There are so many great companies to support that promote and sell fair trade items. One is Green Global Travel. Head on over to Green Global Travel’s Fair Trade store to start browsing their incredible selection and either shop for yourself or buy a gift for someone you care about!
A few other incredible environmentaly concious companies I love are Ten Tree (who plants 10 trees for every item purchased), TropicFeel (who has eco-friendly travel shoes), Encircled (an ethical, stylish, and sustainable women’s clothing brand)
Ways to Implement Earth Day into Your Travels
We all want to implement more earth-friendly in our daily lives as well as our travels. So, don’t forget to be more environmentally consious while travelling too. Here are a few ways to do that.
Offset your flight carbon footprint
Travel in the off-season
Invest in a reusable coffee cup & water bottle
Walk more
Eat and shop local
Earth Day is more than just a single day, it’s bigger than that. It’s should be the day we celebrate all we do every other day throughout the year to help nourish our planet Earth.
What will you do to celebrate Earth Day?
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