Small changes in everyday habits can make a big difference for our planet. Conserve resources, plant a tree, pick up trash and join the global celebration of Earth Day on April 22.
Earth Day is an international event, celebrated in over 190 countries, uniting us in awareness of how to protect our planet. Many people choose to spend the day outdoors, giving extra love to the environment. Others celebrate environmental achievements and make strides to lessen our collective impact on the natural world.
But it did not begin as such a celebratory occasion – it sprung from a week of environmentally focused “teach-ins” held at the University of Michigan in 1970. Born out of increasing concern for the human impact on the natural environment, these lectures and activities were organized by Wisconsin Sen. Gaylord Nelson, environmental activist Denis Hayes and Ph.D. student Arthur Hanson. Originally anticipated to be a small event, the trio planned a week of informational sessions and learning opportunities to educate college students about the effects and issues caused by water and air pollution. The intention was to engage the next generation in both environmental awareness and protection initiatives.
Much to their surprise, these “teach-ins” would become so much more than they expected. Word of the event spread throughout the town, attracting over 50,000 participants attending 150 events, and quickly becoming one of the largest events in the history of the university. The event ran from March 11 to March 14, centered around the theme “Give Earth a Chance.” The event gained national media attention and momentum and grew into a movement – resulting in the first celebration of Earth Day on April 22, 1970. To show support, people took to the streets demonstrating their desire for change, protection of the environment and attention to human health issues caused by the previous 150 years of industrialization.
Now, 54 years later, the original focal point of Give Earth a Chance is still relevant. Let’s make the environment a focal point again with small changes to everyday habits, such as turning off lights, being mindful of water consumption, reusing/upcycling items, and recycling and putting trash in its place. Earth Day can mark our recommitment to taking care of our planet; are you ready to celebrate? Here are some ideas to get you started:
● Plant flowers, trees or herbs – all plants produce oxygen and, depending on the plant or flower, might attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies or even help clean the air!
● Join in or host a cleanup at your local park, beach or trail – be sure to practice Leave No Trace. We also like to practice Three for ME (Mother Earth) when on walks and pick up at least three pieces of trash. This helps protect our environment and leaves it cleaner than how you found it.
● Incorporate environmental crafts into your day! Make art out of recycled materials or craft bird-seed ornaments for your favorite feathered friends.
● Just go outdoors! Take a hike, have a picnic, play at the beach and take in the natural world. Looking to make it more engaging for kids? Set up an environmental scavenger hunt for them to run out their energy and stay curious.
Ready to Give Earth a Chance locally? Check out these Earth Day activities in Santa Cruz
● Earth Day Santa Cruz (April 20): Environmental festival featuring local businesses, vendors and an environmental focused fashion show run by kids. Downtown Santa Cruz – Cooper Street & Abbott Square (scearthday.org).
● Earth Day Watsonville (April 21): Explore this year’s theme: “Planet vs. Plastic,” a call to action to increase awareness of the health risks of plastic and advocate for a reduction in plastic pollution. Watsonville Plaza (www.watsonville.gov/1779/Earth-Day).
● Downtown Salinas Green Up Celebration (April 21): Come help clean and green downtown Salinas, starting at 9 a.m. Cleanup kits will be provided! (salinascitycenter.com)
● Beach cleanup at Cowell Beach with Save our Shores (April 21): Registration required. (https://saveourshores.org/event/beach-cleanup-cowell-beach-5/)
● Volunteer with Earth Day Climate Action with California State Parks Foundation! Many
options to participate; please visit their its at www.calparks.org/earthday.
● Grab a State Parks pass FREE from the Santa Cruz Library and go explore! (www.santacruzpl.org)
● Happening in May: Pitch in Santa Cruz, a countywide cleanup event. Please visit pitchinsantacruz.org for details and events near you!
