Mainstream America probably viewed the very first Earth Day in
1970 as a hippie event that would only appeal to tree-hugger types living in
geodesic domes. It’s hard to believe, but just forty years ago in the United
States, our natural resources were being polluted and discarded like there was
no tomorrow. Much of our wilderness was vanishing and wildlife was becoming
endangered or lost forever.
In the 1970’s, the initial surge of environmental awareness was
generated by public “teach-ins” that educated citizens about the looming crisis
of environmental problems. Over a relatively short period of time the environmental
movement gained momentum as citizens across the United States began demanding
change from industry and the government. By April 22, 1990, Earth Day achieved a
major milestone by becoming a global event that mobilized over 200 million
people in 141 countries. The message being sent to world leaders was that immediate
action must be taken on global warming and clean energy. Environmental concerns
had clearly moved to the center stage of world awareness.
Take Action on Earth
Day
The history of Earth Day speaks volumes about how much the
world has actually changed for the better – at least in the area of
environmental awareness! Remember the “teach-ins?” Earth Day is a great
opportunity for families to educate their children about respect and
responsibility for the planet. Remember that millions of small efforts from
around the world add up to a major contribution.
On Earth Day 2014, make a contribution to our planet with
one of the following suggestions:
Plant
a Tree
Help Green World Campaign to restore indigenous ecologies and lessen the
climate crisis in by planting trees. To learn how you can help Green
World carry out its mission, click here. In addition to planting a tree
in your neighborhood, you could donate to The Canopy Project, a worldwide
campaign to plant trees that will provide food, energy and income to
communities in need of achieving economic and environmental sustainability. To
make a commitment to the Canopy Project, click here.
Pledge an Act of Green
The Earth Day Network is encouraging its supporters to pledge 1 billion acts of green. Whether your plan is to plant a tree, clean up a park or commit to another noble green act, let the world know! To add your green act to the count or to find an Earth Day Network event in which to participate, click here.
Pledge an Act of Green
The Earth Day Network is encouraging its supporters to pledge 1 billion acts of green. Whether your plan is to plant a tree, clean up a park or commit to another noble green act, let the world know! To add your green act to the count or to find an Earth Day Network event in which to participate, click here.
Plan an Earth Day Dinner
Every
holiday has its own special menu, so for Earth Day make sure the food is local,
seasonal and organic. Especially if you have been working outdoors on a
volunteer project, wrap up Earth Day with a group dinner. For some menu
suggestions, a preparation list and more, click
here.
Volunteer!
Roll up your sleeves and join fellow Earth Day enthusiasts who are determined to save the planet. Get involved by volunteering your skills and energy to an environmental nonprofit organization in your area. Find an event that allows you to give back to the planet through VolunteerMatch.
Volunteer!
Roll up your sleeves and join fellow Earth Day enthusiasts who are determined to save the planet. Get involved by volunteering your skills and energy to an environmental nonprofit organization in your area. Find an event that allows you to give back to the planet through VolunteerMatch.
#GlobalSelfie