National Earth Day is celebrated annually on April 22nd. It’s a tradition dating back to 1970 when people around the world joined together to shine a spotlight on air pollution.

The theme for Earth Day 2020 is climate action. It’s a campaign designed to educate the public on what climate change is and how you can help turn things around.

You can participate in this “action” by participating in digital Earth Day events or by supporting the works of an environmental or conservation organization year round. Learning more about the lifestyle modifications you can make that will protect the earth also helps.

Earth Day Virtual Volunteer Opportunities

Although we are in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are many ways you can celebrate Earth Day from the safety of your home. You can visit the official Earth Day website to participate in their digital Earth Day Live event featuring messages, performances, and calls to action from environmental leaders. They also offer an Earth Day event database where you can register for other digital events to support the cause.

Volunteer Match is another way to connect with Earth Day activities. They maintain an online database of groups and organizations that are offering virtual volunteer opportunities for Earth Day, and other ongoing projects year round.

Protect the Earth: Small Steps Add Up to Big Results

There are many ways you can help protect the earth and encourage others to do the same. Small lifestyle changes can have a big impact over time. Here are a few to think about:

• Avoid single-use plastics: Whether it’s straws at a fast-food restaurant or shopping and produce bags at the grocery store, try to avoid single-use plastics. Instead, opt for silicone straws, natural fiber grocery bags, and reusable produce bags. As you eat out, shop, and even order necessities online, be mindful of opportunities you find for eliminating plastic.
• Skip bottled water: Eighty percent of plastic water bottles end up in landfills. Even more shocking is how long each bottle takes to disintegrate. Experts say each plastic bottle can take up to 1,000 years to break down, all the while leaking pollutants into the earth. Invest in a few BPA-free, refillable water bottles that you drink from throughout the day. This simple step is one that can have a long-lasting impact on the environment.
• Shop local: When you buy food and other household items from a local merchant, you eliminate the packaging required to ship purchases. Most online vendors use Styrofoam, plastic wrap, and other packaging waste. This is on top of the extra pollutants caused by transporting products from faraway destinations.

Community Involvement at Clearwater Living

Through our Empowered Living® program, we provide opportunities for residents to stay connected and engaged with the world around them, including Earth Day activities. This approach to wellness recognizes the importance of creating a culture that empowers residents to live purposeful days.

Call the Clearwater Living community nearest you to learn more today!