Each year on April 22, Earth Day unites approximately one billion people worldwide in endeavors to combat the climate crisis and cultivate behaviors that safeguard the environment.
Participating in Earth Day activities presents an exceptional chance to partake in environmental activism and contribute to a more sustainable world. Each Earth Day revolves around varying themes, spotlighting diverse facets of environmental preservation and sustainability.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13, Climate Action, and SDG 15, Life on Land, underscore the pressing need for climate action and the conservation of terrestrial ecosystems.
Earth Day 2024: Planet vs. Plastics
EARTHDAY.ORG has chosen the theme for Earth Day 2024: ‘Planet vs. Plastics’. Global plastic waste production surpasses 380 million tonnes annually, a considerable portion of which ends up in landfills, oceans, and water bodies.
With the overarching objective of forging a plastic-free future for generations to come, Earth Day 2024, observed on April 22, 2024, revolves around the theme ‘Planet vs. Plastics’. This theme underscores the dangers plastics pose to the planet and human health, advocating for an end to all plastic waste by demanding a 60% reduction in plastic production by 2040.
To realize this goal, EARTHDAY.ORG has outlined significant objectives:
1. Raising widespread public awareness about the detrimental effects of plastic on human health, animal welfare, and biodiversity, and advocating for increased research on its health implications, with transparent dissemination of findings to the public.
2. Swiftly phasing out all single-use plastics by 2030, with a commitment to this phase-out embedded in the United Nations Treaty on Plastic Pollution by 2024.
3. Advocating for policies to curtail the proliferation of fast fashion and the extensive use of plastic therein.
4. Investing in innovative technologies and materials to pave the way for a plastic-free world.
Earth Day 2024: Origin
Earth Day serves as a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility for the planet’s health. Its origins trace back to the late 1960s, an era marked by heightened public discourse on environmental issues catalyzed by Rachel Carson’s seminal work ‘Silent Spring’ (1962) and the Santa Barbara oil spill (1969).
In essence, Earth Day holds more significance than ever amid mounting concerns about the environment, dwindling natural resources, and escalating climate change. Beyond spotlighting these concerns, it serves as a pivotal platform for raising public awareness and galvanizing global action.
It underscores the shared responsibility of corporations, governments, communities, and individuals in safeguarding the planet’s health, emphasizing the imperative of collective efforts toward this end.
What can you do to Celebrate Earth Day 2024?
While we all continue to do what we can for the planet, sometimes we let things go for convenience or cost. On the occasion of Earth Day, let us choose to make an effort to be more sustainable, as a tribute to mother earth. Following are the five ways in which you can do that.
1. Support Local and Sustainable Agriculture
Purchase locally grown and organic produce to reduce the environmental impact of food transportation and support sustainable farming practices. Locally produced food is not just. cheaper, but healthier too. And if you find it difficult to obtain it, consider starting a home garden or participating in a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program to access fresh, locally sourced food. There is no better than today to start this!
2. Practice Conscious Consumerism
Be mindful of your purchasing decisions by opting for products that are ethically produced, environmentally friendly, and certified by reputable sustainability standards. There are several brands that make their products in India, while ensuring that they are Eco-Friendly, or Vegan. Another thing you can do is prioritise quality over quantity, repair or repurpose items instead of discarding them, and consider borrowing or renting items that you only need temporarily.
3. Practice Sustainable Eating Habits
Did you know that animal husbandry is responsible for largest amounts of green gas emissions? On this Earth Day, you can reduce your environmental footprint by adopting a plant-based diet or reducing your consumption of animal products. Choose sustainably sourced seafood, avoid food waste by meal planning and composting organic waste, and support initiatives that promote sustainable food systems and reduce food insecurity.
4. Choose Sustainable Traveling Options
Google flights allows you to choose a flight with lowest emissions. Several cab services also allow you to choose an EV to travel locally. All it takes is, making a choice. So let us do that! When traveling, choose eco-friendly accommodations, support local businesses, and opt for modes of transportation that minimise carbon emissions, such as trains or buses. Offset the carbon footprint of your travels by supporting reforestation projects or investing in renewable energy initiatives.
5. Educate and Inspire
Share your knowledge and passion for environmental conservation with others by leading by example, organising educational workshops or presentations, and leveraging social media to raise awareness about pressing environmental issues and inspire positive change. Encourage others to join you in making sustainable lifestyle choices and participating in Earth Day activities. Happy Earth Day Everyone!
