Although April 22nd is officially Earth Day, we should really consider everyday Earth Day. After all, without Earth, where would we be? As we look toward April 22nd and what we can do to take note of our most magnificent, life-sustaining sphere, what a difference we could make if each of us just did at least one thing each day to preserve, improve or celebrate our Earth.
In order for us to make every day Earth Day we must understand the origin and meaning of this most significant occasion. Although one might think the need for this day is obvious, it took smog covered cities, a compromised ozone layer and flaming rivers to bring attention to the wavering health of our planet. We have Senator Gaylord Nelson to thank for his determination to bring environmental issues to the political and public arenas. On April 22, 1970, after a seven-year struggle, the EPA was founded and Earth Day was officially celebrated by 20 million people.
Today, Earth Day is a global celebration that includes individual, group and national efforts to bring awareness to environmental issues, as well as, participate in activities that promote a healthier Earth. This day of recognition inspires individuals, schools, businesses, cities, states and nations to take note of the air they breathe, water they drink, waste they generate and food and energy they consume - all issues we should be addressing daily. On this day more trees are planted, communities are cleaned up, more items are recycled and more children are taught environmental issues.
However, for a great deal of us, the health of our environment is a fairly new concept. For the baby boomer and generation X groups the health of Earth is still something we have to remind ourselves to be accountable for. But, we are learning and have the opportunity to bring Earth to the forefront for current and future generations. For them, the concept of Earth Day could be an everyday event. As a generation of individuals that did not grow up with this concept, raising our children to understand environmental issues, and being positive role models, is where we will make the greatest contribution.
Give the children in your life the tools and direction they need to grow into eco responsible and accountable adults. Integrate the concept of recycling, reusing and reducing waste into daily activities that reinforce responsible ways of living. As children are eager to help, make them a part of simple and fun ways to make your home more environmentally friendly: plant a garden; change all the light bulbs to compact fluorescent; purchase fabric bags the children can decorate and use to transport groceries; clean up a park. The list of environmentally friendly options and activities is extensive.
Even the toys and other items you purchase for children may strongly reflect eco awareness. For example, consider purchasing items that are made of recycled, replenished, or organic materials. Give items that have a timeless, classic, keepsake quality that won't end up in a broken, plastic heap at the bottom of a toy box. Books are always a great gift for children and may certainly be passed on to their children.
For older children, environmental science kits are a great way to engage and educate. Thinkbutton has several types of kits that range from individual testing kits, like acid rain testing, to more comprehensive eco kits. These kits make great school or camp activities, as well as, fun family activities for home or vacations.
So, as we make plans to celebrate the beauty and bountiful resources of our planet, let's keep in mind that April 22nd is one of 365 days to be accountable and protect Earth. Earth Day should be a day we go above and beyond our everyday acts of environmental responsibility, to truly celebrate a planet that gives so much and asks so little in return. Let's make everyday Earth Day!
