We celebrate holidays dedicated to everything from flags to consumption, so it only seems right that we should recognize Earth too! See below for an Inhabitat article by Tafline Laylin on different ways to celebrate Earth Day.
On Earth Day, cities, businesses and individuals all roll out the green carpet. No doubt you have seen a lot of famous brands touting Earth Day initiatives or have heard about eco-friendly events being planned in your own community. Unfortunately, most of these events have changed from “do something nice for the Earth” events to “buy this thing that is maybe a little greener than the alternative but mostly just something you need to buy” events. But that does not mean you should hide indoors feeling guilty on April 22. On the contrary, there are a lot of easy and fun ways to celebrate Earth Day that can actually make a difference all year long.
- Do not drive. Give your car the day off this Earth Day. Plan to get to work, school or happy hour using another, more eco-friendly mode of transportation instead. Walk, ride your bike, take the bus or train, roller blade or skateboard!
- Recylce E-Waste. The EPA and other agencies suggest that electronic waste (e-waste) is the fastest growing waste stream in the world. Chances are, you have an outdated electronic appliance gathering dust somewhere in your house right now, and your neighbors probably do too. This Earth Day, help make sure those gadgets end up properly recycled instead of taking up space or leaching toxins in a landfill.
- Plant Food. Organic and locally-grown food is better for the planet, but it can be expensive. This Earth Day, plant one thing that can be consumed by your family. You can grow it on your windowsill, your fire escape or even your kitchen wall.
- Share Something. An eco-friendly lifestyle comes in all shapes and sizes. Recently, there has been a lot of excitement over a renewed interest in sharing time, money and resources as a way to increase everyone’s access to things they need.
- Go Solar. You are probably tempted to skip right over this option because you either do not own a house or do not have the finances to install solar panels on it, but rooftop solar is only one way to turn solar power into free, renewable electricity. Smaller solar harvesting devices are popping up all over, from pocket-sized phone chargers to portable multi-panel kits. Switching just one or two devices to solar power can save you some serious money and take some pressure off the grid.
- Get Outside. Earth Day is about enjoying and taking care of the planet, so why spend it inside, glued to a screen? This April 22, one of the best things you can do for yourself and the Earth is to remember why it is worth saving in the first place. The Earth is an amazing, beautiful place to explore. Go for a hike, take a nature walk, plan a picnic in the park or a game of kickball with your buddies. Remember how great it feels to have the wind in your hair and the sun on your face! Reconnecting with nature is the best way to remind yourself why we are fighting so hard to protect it.
