Every year on April 22, Earth Day is recognized to bring awareness on environmental issues plaguing the planet – and to present us an opportunity to do something about it. A myriad of events and activities take place, most noticeably the planting of trees, collection of litter, and educational forums on recycling and environmental protection. Earth Day is not to be confused with the now-customary “Earth Hour” tradition of turning off all the lights in one’s home for one hour beginning at 8:30pm to preserve energy; this year, Earth Hour took place on March 27.
The Earth is a fine place and worth fighting for.
ERNEST HEMINGWAY
Here in Canada, the first official Earth Day event occurred in 1980, but it had already been in existence in The United States since 1970. Environmentalists had been active for years regarding the need to purify the environment, but everything came to a head on January 28, 1969 when an oil well blew up off the coast of Santa Barbara, California. Over three million gallons of oil spewed into the ocean and over 10,000 sea wildlife creatures were killed; it was reported an 800-square-foot oil slick was visible by aircraft. In response, activists formed a united front and relentlessly pushed for immediate environmental regulation, education, and Earth Day.
Want to Get Involved? Here’s How
The 2021 celebration of Earth Day is expected to attract over one billion participants from around the world, all working toward the achievement of their motto, “Restore Our Earth.” If you visit earthday.org, you’ll access information on the featured event, “Three Days of Climate Action,” which begins April 20 and concludes on Earth Day. Over 150,000 partners from 192 nations will be involved.
If the message of Earth Day resonates with you and you’re comfortable making climate action a daily activity, you can take immediate steps by doing such things as “plogging” (picking up litter as you jog), or getting in the habit of avoiding single-use plastic bags when you grocery shop – make a minor investment in a sturdy nylon shopping “tote” that’s easier on the planet.
Education, improvement, and the spirit of community involvement are at the forefront of Earth Day, so don’t be shy – get involved today!
