Have you noticed that there’s a celebratory day for almost everything? When it comes to Earth Day, I’m glad that we have day set aside a day to focus on the gift of Earth. We are fortunate to have a beautiful planet to live in so we should take time to appreciate it and explore it. Now that I’m a parent I’ve become more intentional about how I respect the environment and the legacy I want to leave behind.
Regardless of nationality, religion, race, education, or economic status, we all have one earth that we share. If we don’t make changes now Earth as we know it will not be the same for the next generation. Thus, I believe it is the responsibility of everyone to show the next generation how to be mindful and respect the Earth, sure we need to learn about it from a geological stand point but we should revere it like we do our elders.
Here are 10 Ways You Can make the most of Earth Day
1. Recycle
One of the easiest ways to show your appreciation for earth is to conserve, reduce, and reuse. It doesn’t cost anything to try to generate less waste. Use reusable bags. Create an art sculpture out of household items you no longer need. Donate gently used items to others instead of adding more waste to the landfill.
2. Visit a State or Federal Park
Visiting a park that was apart and protected gives you a glimpse into our beautiful world. The natural beauty will leave you in awe and soothe you. My favorite part of visiting local parks is the soothing nature sounds, which are opposite of the loud hum of the highway. Taking time to listen to the quiet stillness of nature is magical.
3. Visit a zoo or farm
Of course, seeing animals in their natural habitats is best, but that’s not always an option for those of us who live in the city.
4. Visit a botanical garden
Viewing a variety of colorful plants and flowers shows you the unparalleled beauty of nature’s artistry.
5. Attend an Earth Day local Celebration
Cities across the world have designated activities that you can enjoy. Go to your cities local tourism bureau’s Facebook page to see if they have some suggestions that will interest you. If you’re located in the DC metro area, visit DC Thrifty Mom’s website for free and low-cost events.
6. Garden
Plant a plant, tree, fruit, veggies, or flowers. Work on your yard’s landscaping.
7. Bike
Try not to use your car and bike, walk, or find another way to get around without releasing emissions from a vehicle.
8. Go bird watching
There are so many varieties of beautiful birds, take some quiet time and grab your binoculars and see which native birds in your area you can find.
9. Read books that highlight nature
You can read books about the earth, natural landscapes, animals, the universe, etc. (Thank you, Earth – affiliate https://amzn.to/2HR7gKf)
I Am Earth: An Earth Day Book for Kids – affiliate https://amzn.to/2vAeDTR)
10. Enjoy the outdoors
You can take a hike, have a family picnic, take a walk, go camping, go on a scavenger hunt, go kite flying. The goal is to enjoy the day in a natural environment.