Make a Difference this Earth Day

April 22, 2020 marks 50 years of the world's largest environmental movement: Earth Day. With more than 193 countries that participate, it demonstrates worldwide support for environmental protection. The theme for Earth Day 2020 is “climate action”. We have two crises: one is the COVID-19 Pandemic, the other is climate change. While we were not prepared for the coronavirus, we still have time to prepare for the climate crisis.

Even during this global pandemic, Earth Day is the perfect time to get involved (remotely of course) and celebrate the world we live in. As Earth Day goes digital, there are still many ways to work towards climate action.

• Post to Earth Day’s Speak Up Map. Share with the world what you are doing to save our planet and be inspired by others’ actions.
• Become educated on climate change. Whether it be listening to a lecture, watching a video, or even reading an article, the best way to fix something is to learn about it. Being educated on climate change can give you the resources to work towards an environmentally friendly lifestyle.
• Make an Earth Day window sign. Don’t let social distancing stop you from speaking out. Make a window sign or chalk drawing to show your neighborhood how you advocate for the Earth.
• Join the Earth Challenge 2020 app available on tablets and smartphones. This app allows you to gather important scientific data to be a part of the world’s largest citizen science effort.
• Donate to environmental conservation organizations or climate change research. Even a couple of dollars can go a long way while supporting these important causes.
• Stop drinking bottled water and using other plastic goods. Using non-disposable water bottles, cups, shopping bags, food utensils, and containers will help to reduce unnecessary plastic waste.
• Write a letter to a local representative or person of power about environmental legislation. Voice your opinions and fight for a change in governmental action geared at protecting the Earth.
• Start a garden in your backyard. Producing your own fruits, vegetables, and spices contribute to a more self-sustainable lifestyle. An organic food garden can have a zero-carbon footprint and a positive climate effect.
• Go on a nature walk or bike ride. A good way to appreciate nature is to be surrounded by it. While keeping social distance, get out of your house and enjoy the beauty of your neighborhood.
• Find a digital Earth Day event or even start your own. Many organizations worldwide have started online Earth Day functions that comply with health guidelines.
• Encourage others to participate in Earth Day too. An online group discussion, video chat or even text message can bring those you love virtually together during this hard time.

Don’t let COVID-19 stop you from be active this Earth Day. A little comes a long way when it comes to being greener. This Earth Day, do your part to make the world a better and cleaner place. For more digital Earth Day ideas, look at earthday.org’s postings.