Friday April 22, 2022 is Earth Day. If there was ever a day to get outside and enjoy the beauty of our planet, today is the day. Spring is upon us and there are endless ways to celebrate. Earthday.org reminds us to “Invest in Our Planet” – the slogan for Earth Day this year.
History of the Day
The idea for Earth Day was born in 1969. U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson witnessed the effects of a terrible oil spill in Santa Barbara, CA. Shortly after, Nelson called all Americans to take a stand for the environment. In 1970, thousands of colleges and universities across the U.S. organized protests for a healthier Earth. The protests spanned from air pollution to loss of habitats and animal extinction. Amazingly, this first Earth Day helped create the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Further, the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species acts became law.
Years later, in 1990, Earth Day became globally popular. Over 200 million people organized and united to fight for climate protection across 141 countries.
Let’s Invest!
Today, we still have similar concerns. In many ways, things are even messier now than when the original oil spill occurred. The increasing natural disasters, extreme weather and rising temperatures may seem overwhelming. Just remember – even the small things add up.
All interested in participating in Earth Day activities are encouraged to visit EarthDay.org for an interactive map of activities all around the world. On the other hand, if you would prefer to participate with just you and yours:
- Work to lower your carbon footprint by walking or riding a bike
- Reuse and recycle your wardrobe
- Switch you diet to be more sustainable and work to produce less food waste
- Plant a tree or flowers with your family
- Gather together to help remove trash from a park, stream or other nature area
Remember: it takes all of us.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: National Today; EarthDay.org
Image: Adobe Stock
