Earth Day: Invest in Our Planet

Earth Day is just around the corner. Over the years, celebrations have grown increasingly popular with billions of people participating in events across the globe. While it may be a tradition rooted in humble beginnings, now more than 190 countries observe the holiday.

How did it begin in the first place? In 1962, Rachel Carson published Silent Spring, the best seller that brought to light the potential dangers of widespread pesticide use, bringing critical environmental issues to the public’s attention. The book sparked the interest of Senator Gaylord Nelson, who initiated a conservation tour with President Kennedy to raise awareness about environmental issues. Concern regarding the damaging effects of industrial pollution continued to rise to the forefront, leading to the first Earth Day on April 22, 1970, and the rest is history from there.

Fast forward to the present day – after more than 50 years of honoring our planet annually – it’s no secret that we are in a state of crisis to combat the effects of climate change and global warming. A quick scroll through NASA’s images of change is enough to cause alarm. That’s why we continue to embrace the beauty of Earth and promote sustainable practices for a brighter future every year. It might seem like a big undertaking, and while larger systems are needed to make changes, there are steps we can take now to make a difference, starting with Earth Day.

We hope you will join us to invest in our planet this month and take action to make it a year-long effort, supporting the Earth every day. There are many ways to participate, including volunteering at an event, initiating a conversation with people around you or making changes to your own daily habits and routines. Try incorporating these 52 practices throughout the year – just one a week!

Our Green Team will be out in the community throughout April participating in events across the triangle. We hope you’ll consider joining us at one (or all!) of them. If you’re interested in volunteering at one of the events below, email us at speaker@ncgreenpower.org.

High Point University Outdoor Event
Thursday, April 22 | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Apex EarthFest
Saturday, April 23 | 12 – 4 p.m.

Triangle SciTech Expo
Saturday, April 23 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.