This year’s Earth Day celebration is Friday, April 22. Earth Day was created by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson, who realized that in order to repair the environmental devastation seen in this country it would take a mass of citizens who are aware of the importance of protecting the environment and willing to unite to show their love and admiration for nature. On April 22, 1970, 20,000,000 Americans participated in organized rallies at parks, auditoriums, colleges, universities, and on the streets. This was the largest secular gathering of Americans in American history. This led to laws protecting water and air, and eventually to the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency. Earth Day became a worldwide event in 1990. In 2016, the Paris accord, which protects the global environment, was signed on Earth Day 2016. Over 100 million people took part in the largest ever online mass mobilization for the 50th anniversary of Earth Day in 2020. These are just a few highlights of a rich history. However, every other year it is a tradition in some communities to commemorate for one day. In others, celebrations are planned for the entire week.
Although the history of Earth Day celebrations is complex and filled with conflicting principles, the guiding spirit of Earth Day activities is the benevolent celebration. Children are encouraged to get involved with nature and are central to the activities. They are the future.
Earth Day this year is under the shadow of the Recent report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [IPCC]In which 278 scientists representing 65 countries analyzed 18,000 sources. Their conclusion was that urgent and large carbon reductions were necessary to keep the global temperatures from rising beyond 1.5 degrees Celsius. Already, the global temperature has risen by 1.1 degrees Celsius. We have seen an increase in floods, hurricanes and wild fires. It is possible that we are approaching tipping points, where it will be impossible to repair the damage. Our current lifestyles and runaway emissions from oil and gas production, industrial agriculture, and abandoned coal mines are the main drivers of all this.
You may ask, “What can I do?” Your actions can have an impact on the world. Recycling glass, aluminum, cardboard, and plastic is a good idea. Find out what the numbers in the triangle mean. Some plastic cannot be recycled and can cause harm if it gets into the environment. Reduce your digital footprint by turning off your power strip and lights when not in use. If you have to travel by air, use public transport whenever possible. Support environmental projects. Buy local, eat less animal products and don’t waste so much.
Visit the website Kentucky Interfaith Power and LightCheck out their lists 25 Steps Less Than $25 and 25 Steps More Than $25Each item has a CO2 reduction listed. By purchasing compact fluorescent bulbs with energy-saving features, you can reduce your CO2 emissions by 180 pounds per bulb. Louisville Climate Action NetworkMany other ideas are also available, including the Five Rs: Refuse. Reduce, reuse. Recycle. And restore. The real message is to not buy anything you don’t need.
Joining a group of likeminded people can bring you complete satisfaction. Both Louisville Climate Action Network Project Warm: Energy Conservation AssociatesVolunteering is a great way to get involved. Many volunteer groups welcome people with diverse skills and ideas. These include, for instance, 100% Real(Renewable Energy Alliance Louisville), a group that aims to have 100% renewable energy by 2040. Each member of the group brings their expertise to the project. The Louisville Sustainability CouncilWorks in tandem with Louisville Grows to develop greener neighborhoods. FIN (Food in the Neighborhoods) Check out their excellent website) is an umbrella group that identifies with all aspects of urban agriculture, including land acquisition. If food is not what you are looking for, but plants are, then you can check out the Louisville Nature Center, Passionist Earth and Spirit CentreThe Native Plant Society, or the local chapter Wild OnesThis website focuses on native plants, and insects. Check out this site if you are interested in bicycling. Streets for People(formerly Bicycling For Louisville), or the Falls City Community BikeWorksLouisville’s nonprofit community open bike shop where you will be able to repair your bike or buy a used one.
We have chapters of national organizations, which meet regularly and share information. They also advocate in Washington for specific causes. A portion of meetings of the Audubon SocietyThis site is dedicated to local bird sightings, and information about birding equipment. Citizens Climate LobbyThe Climate Change Lobby (CCL) is a group that advocates for legislation related to climate change. Sierra ClubLocal outings are also offered. A focus is placed on threats to wild sites and natural resources. They are a force in Washington, D.C.
The advocates who are state-wide and deal directly with Kentucky laws and regulations are the ones most likely to face the greatest challenges. They are more likely to have professionals who include Kentucky in their names. Waterways Alliance, Conservation Committee, Resources Council, Student Environmental Coalition, Interfaith Power and Light. Last but not the least, make sure you check out Kentuckians for The CommonwealthThe most active, diverse, and organized group of all. If all of this seems overwhelming take a stroll in Bernheim ForestYou can also take a forest bath in the nearby woods.
Jean Christensen is a member the Louisville chapter Citizens Climate Lobby. This non-partisan grassroots advocacy organization empowers people to achieve breakthroughs in exercising their political and personal power.