Read Time: 4 min
By Kyla Isakson, Membership and Digital Media Coordinator
Friday, April 22, 2022, marks the 52nd anniversary of Earth Day. This celebration was established in 1970 to educate the public about environmental conservation and encourage the support of legislation that aims to protect nature, wildlife, and the health of the human population. Now, it is a global event that brings together millions of people to raise awareness, make change, and contribute to environmental conservation and stewardship.
Here are 7 ways you can celebrate Earth Day – today and every day!
Go Outside
One of the easiest ways to celebrate Earth Day is to go outside! Bike, hike, paddle, and explore all that nature has to offer. Take some time to feel the warm sun or cool breeze on your face, smell the fresh spring air, and listen for signs of spring. Taking time outdoors can be beneficial for both your mental and physical health, so take a moment today to go outside!
Not sure where to go? Visit our website for trails in your area.
Choose Sustainable
There are many ways you can make sustainable choices. Many plastic products have eco-friendly alternatives — like metal straws, reusable cotton shopping bags, and insulated travel coffee cups. You can also reduce energy use and save money by switching to LED lightbulbs, smart thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances. Going green and making eco-conscious decisions doesn’t have to be complicated, and one small change can make a big impact!
Find ways to save at MassSave.com.
Clean Up
The next time you take a walk around your neighborhood, on a local trail, or at the beach, grab a trash bag (and maybe some gloves) to pick up waste left behind. If trash is not picked up in these areas, it can end up in our waterways or be eaten by animals. Respect your local environment, and always dispose of waste properly. Remember to pick up after your pet too!
Volunteer
Taking time to volunteer with an environmental organization can be a fun way to get involved and see the results of your contributions to conservation. Organizations rely on the dedication of their supporters, working as a team to achieve their goals for the benefit of the community. A great way to provide continuous support is to join Wildlands’ Adopt-a-Preserve program, where volunteers take a couple of hours each month to walk a preserve and report back on its condition. Volunteer with Wildlands!
Support Local
Protecting agricultural land is part of Wildlands' mission to preserve the natural heritage of our region. When you purchase locally grown food, you support our region's family farmers and help keep our agricultural heritage alive. Freshly picked produce is nutritious and delicious, and purchasing locally sourced products reduces your carbon footprint. Supporting local establishments helps small businesses thrive, strengthens the local economy, and builds a sense of community among us. In a time when people often opt for the convenience and uniformity of big stores, it is important to remember to shop locally!
As a Wildlands member, you receive discounts at local farms and retailers with your valid membership card.
Encourage others
Earth Day is a terrific way to get involved in local land protection. Whatever way you choose to celebrate the day, take a moment to encourage others to join your support of environmental conservation. Invite them to a volunteer event, recommend a sustainable product, or give the gift of Wildlands! As a member, they will receive more information about our organization and what we do to protect the land we love. Gift a membership to someone today!
Give Back
Take time to reflect on how you can give back to the environment. Showing your support and donating your time, goods, talent, or money helps to maintain and improve the quality of life for people and wildlife in the community. Donating your time and talents through volunteering and offering special assistance gives organizations the capacity to do more. Donating goods and money can help provide the necessary tools and materials to sponsor youth programs that educate and connect the next generation to nature, or support trail stewardship that ensures the maintenance of valuable properties for years to come.
Donate today to help Wildlands continue to protect land and provide education and recreation for the people of Southeastern Massachusetts, now and in the future.
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