29 Exciting Ways to Celebrate Earth Day This Year
This post is all about Earth Day. What Earth Day is and the best ways to celebrate this exciting annual event.
Over the past few years, I have become more aware of the impact we (as humans) have on our planet. The ways we choose to live and dress make a difference, whether that be positively or negatively.
I’m not perfect, no one is and you know what, life is hard. So trying to live sustainably on top of that can be challenging.
Not forgetting that the world we live in isn’t exactly set up for us to live sustainably, the lack of availability or options can make it difficult for individuals to make sustainable choices.
But as we approach April (Earth Month) it’s important to try and reflect on our actions and the environmental impact they have.
Celebrating ‘Earth Day’ is one of the ways I will be caring for the environment this year.
If you’re interested in joining me, I have more information below.
Earth Day 2024: How to Celebrate Earth Day this Year
What is Earth Day & Why do we celebrate it?
Earth Day is an annual celebration where millions of people come together on April 22nd to participate in events and activities to support environmental protection.
Celebrating Earth Day allows us to honour the achievements of the environmental movement.
The primary focus of Earth Day is to:
- Raise awareness about environmental issues
- Promote sustainability
- Encourage actions to protect the planet
- Educate people about sustainable practices and conservation
This will empower individuals and communities. Bringing together different backgrounds, cultures and countries to contribute to a healthier, more sustainable planet for future generations.
History of Earth Day
When Was Earth Day First Celebrated?
Earth Day was first celebrated on April 22, 1970. It traces back to the efforts of Senator Gaylord Nelson, who initiated the first Earth Day in the United States in 1970. Senator Nelson, alarmed by environmental degradation and inspired by the emerging environmental movement, looked to dedicate a day to raising awareness about environmental issues and encouraging people to take action to protect the environment.
The first Earth Day was a nationwide event in the United States, it involved rallies, protests, and educational activities. It is estimated that around 20 million people participated, making it one of the largest demonstrations in American history.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also plays a pivotal role in addressing environmental challenges within the country. It administers and enforces key environmental laws, including the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act.
Earth Day aligns with the principles and goals of these acts, emphasising the importance of sustainable practices. The EPA’s official gov website is a valuable resource for information on environmental policies, regulations, and initiatives.
How Many Countries Celebrate Earth Day?
Since 1970, April 22 has become an essential date for environmentalists worldwide and is celebrated in more than 193 countries.
What is the 2024 Earth Day Theme?
In 2024, the Earth Day theme is Planet vs. Plastics. The aim is to highlight the detrimental effects of plastics on our environment, both in our oceans and on land. The goal is to reduce 60% of plastic production by 2040.
But how?
- Promote widespread public awareness of the damage plastic does to our environment and our health.
- Phase out single-use plastics by 2030
- Demand policies ending fast fashion and the enormous amounts of plastic it produces
- Invest in innovative technologies to create a plastic-free world
Take Action
Reduce Plastic Consumption
Educate yourself about plastic. Plastic pollution can create big problems for human and ecosystem health. Use this calculator to learn about how many plastic items you consume and discard every year.
Participate in Advocacy
Make your voice heard, act now!
Vote Earth
Save our future & pledge to vote.
Sustainable Fashion
Learn about the detrimental impact of fast fashion and why sustainable fashion is so important. Commit to aiming to become a conscious consumer.
29 Ways To Celebrate Earth Day 2024
Celebrating Earth Day is a great way to show your appreciation for the environment and contribute to its well-being.
Here are some activities and ways you can get involved:
1. Reduce your carbon footprint
Our daily activities such as transportation, energy consumption, and food choices contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
You can reduce your carbon footprint by walking, cycling or taking public transport, using energy-efficient appliances, and choosing plant-based foods.
2. Support local businesses
By supporting local businesses, you reduce the carbon footprint of transportation and shipping. It also promotes sustainable practices such as reducing packaging waste and using eco-friendly materials.
3. Reduce, reuse, and recycle
The three R’s are an essential part of environmental sustainability. Reducing our consumption, reusing items, and recycling materials can significantly reduce the amount of waste we generate.
Evaluate your daily habits and find ways to reduce your waste. Reuse items when possible and make sure to recycle materials like paper, plastic, and glass.
4. Educate others
Earth Day is an opportunity to educate others about the importance of environmental sustainability. Sharing knowledge and raising awareness can encourage others to make changes in their daily lives.
You can host or attend educational workshops to learn more about environmental issues, sustainable living practices, and ways to reduce your ecological footprint.
5. Eco-friendly practices
Earth Day is also a good opportunity to promote eco-friendly practices such as saying no to fast fashion, shopping secondhand for your clothes and reducing the amount of single-use plastic you use.
6. Protests and rallies
Some people use Earth Day to stage protests and demonstrations to draw attention to environmental issues and demand action from policymakers.
7. Online Campaigns
In recent years, many people have taken to social media to spread awareness about environmental issues and encourage others to take action. Get involved!
8. Plant a Tree
Consider planting a tree in your backyard or participating in a community tree-planting event. Trees are essential to our planet’s ecosystem. They help absorb carbon dioxide, provide oxygen, and support biodiversity.
Planting a tree is a simple and effective way for you to contribute to environmental restoration.
9. Clean-up Project
Organise or join a local clean-up event in your neighbourhood, park, or beach. Remove litter and properly dispose of it to help keep the environment clean.
Many communities organise clean-up drives to pick up litter and debris from public spaces such as parks, beaches, and rivers.
10. Nature Walk or Hike
Spend time outdoors appreciating nature. Consider going for a hike, nature walk, or even a picnic in a local park to connect with the environment.
Visit your local national parks. National parks, with their rich biodiversity and natural beauty, are highlighted on Earth Day as critical areas for conservation and environmental protection.
Preserving these natural resources ensures that the natural world remains intact for generations to come.
11. Energy Conservation
Make a conscious effort to save energy. Turn off lights and appliances when not in use, switch to energy-efficient bulbs, and consider using renewable energy sources if possible.
12. Community Garden
Join or start a community garden. Growing your own food locally can reduce the environmental impact of transportation and promote sustainable agriculture. Plus it tastes great!
13. Environmental Film Night
Host a movie night featuring documentaries or films that focus on environmental issues. This can help raise awareness and inspire action from others.
14. Eco-friendly Crafts
Get creative with eco-friendly crafts. Use recycled materials to make art, or try your hand at upcycling old clothing items into something new and useful.
15. Wildlife Preservation
Support wildlife conservation efforts. This could involve volunteering at a local wildlife sanctuary or making a donation to a wildlife charity.
16. Earth Day Pledge
Take a personal pledge to adopt more sustainable practices in your daily life. Share your commitment with friends and family to encourage others to do the same.
17. Support Local Environmental Initiatives
Contribute to or volunteer for local environmental organisations. Many communities have groups working towards environmental conservation and sustainability.
This time of year is a great time to get your kids involved in Earth Day. Make sure to tailor activities to your children’s ages and interests.
18. Nature Scavenger Hunt
Organise a nature scavenger hunt in your backyard or a local park. Create a list of items like leaves, rocks, flowers, or animal tracks for your kids to find.
19. Plant a Garden Together
Involve your kids in planting a small garden. Let them choose flowers, herbs, or vegetables to plant and care for.
It’s a great way to teach them about the importance of plants and how they contribute to the environment.
20. Art with Recycled Materials
Encourage creativity by having your kids create art using recycled materials. This could include making collages, sculptures, or paintings using items like old magazines, cardboard, and plastic containers.
21. Earth Day Crafts
Engage in Earth Day-themed crafts. Create Earth Day posters, make reusable shopping bags from old T-shirts, or decorate reusable water bottles with eco-friendly messages.
22. Story Time
Read books that focus on environmental themes or conservation. Discuss the stories with your kids and talk about the importance of taking care of the Earth.
23. Family Clean-Up
Turn a neighbourhood clean-up into a family event. Provide gloves and bags, and pick up litter together.
This hands-on activity helps children understand the impact of waste on the environment.
24. DIY Bird Feeders
Make simple bird feeders using recycled materials. Hang them in your backyard and observe the birds that visit.
This activity teaches kids about local wildlife and the importance of providing habitats for animals.
25. Outdoor Exploration
Spend time exploring nature. Take a family hike, visit a nature reserve or picnic in a park. Use this opportunity to discuss the beauty of the natural world.
26. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Game
Create games that teach your kids about the concepts of reduce, reuse, and recycle. An example is to give them different items and ask them to categorise each one into the appropriate bins.
27. Environmental Documentary Night
Choose family-friendly documentaries or animated shows that focus on environmental issues. This can be an educational and entertaining way for kids to learn about the planet.
28. Earth Day Pledge Board
Create an Earth Day pledge board where each family member can write down one thing they commit to doing to help the environment.
Display the board prominently as a reminder.
29. Eco-friendly Cooking
Cook a meal together using locally sourced, organic ingredients. Discuss the importance of supporting local farmers and choosing sustainable food options.
Earth Day is a reminder that we all have a role to play in environmental sustainability. Let’s make Earth Day 2024 a day of action and commitment towards a sustainable future.
Earth Day 2024: How to Celebrate Earth Day this Year
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