Earth Day 2017

Today is Earth Day, a global event recognized by over 192 countries. It marks the anniversary of the birth of the environmental movement in 1970. Earth Day was created to celebrate the planet's environment and raise public awareness. On March 21, 1971, the UN Secretary General signed a proclamation establishing Earth Day as an official international holiday. Now over a billion people around the globe are learning about environmental issues in their communities.

If you are a regular reader of this blog you may already be familiar with Earth Day and the many things you can do to contribute to the environment. This year consider other ways we can give back to the planet today and every day. Here are some ideas to help you get started:

1% for the Planet: Created in 2002 by Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard and Craig Mathews. 1% for the Planet connects companies and individuals who want to give back to the planet everyday. Look for their logo on the products and services you buy and know that a portion of your purchase will go back into the planet. 

Green Empowerment: A non profit organization that works with local partners around the world to strengthen communities by delivering renewable energy and safe clean water. Visit their website and learn about the many opportunities to help create a world where everyone has clean water and renewable energy.

Shop Smart: Buy from companies that practice sustainability. Every year many websites rank the worlds most sustainable companies. Newsweek has an excellent list here: http://www.newsweek.com/green-2016/top-green-companies-us-2016

Reduce E-Waste: Millions of consumer electronics are thrown out each year and the result is catastrophic to the environment. Find a local recycling center that specializes in electronic waste and dispose of your old gear responsibly. For more information visit http://www.electronicstakeback.com

For more information about Earth Day visit:  http://www.earthday.org