We often overlook the well-being of our planet, but attitudes are changing. With growing awareness on the direct impact human behaviour has on the environment, we’re becoming more mindful of our actions.
Earth Day serves as a celebration and platform to show support for environmental protection. Through various activities, Earth Day raises awareness of pressing issues including climate change, pollution, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.
2024 Earth Day Theme
Every year, the Earth Day Organization launches an initiative centred on a theme related to an environmental issue. This year, the focus is on the “End Plastics” initiative. The goal for Earth Day Org is to reduce the production of all plastics by 60% by 2024. Here are five actions you can take on 22 April to support this initiative and, hopefully, change the world.
1. School yourself
Feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to begin? No worries! EARTHDAY.ORG has you covered. They’ve conducted extensive research and organised it into easy-to-digest toolkits on their website. From “How much disposable plastic we use” to the “Social media toolkit” designed to facilitate sharing knowledge and raising awareness on social media platforms, they’ve got everything you need to get started. Dive in here to get a clearer picture of the issues at hand.
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2. Play your part
Conducting an audit of your plastic consumption and understanding your role may feel insignificant compared to large corporations. However, as consumers, our attitudes hold significant sway over business practices and production. By becoming informed and aware of plastic pollution and its consequences, you transform into a conscious consumer. This, in turn, applies pressure on brands to prioritise sustainable production methods over convenience.
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3. Plan a cleanup with family and friends
EARTHDAY.ORG has a guide you can follow to pull this one off. The beautiful part is that you can create a community that extends beyond the people you know. Other people can volunteer and join in. Check out this link to learn more.
4. Sign the petition
EARTHDAY.ORG has put out a global call for a plastic treaty. The treaty calls for the United Nations and Governmental Organisations to take decisive action against plastic pollution. “The Global Plastics Treaty has the potential to end plastic pollution, protect human health, and lead to a waste-free world and lead to a waste-free world.”
5. Volunteer
When you sign up to volunteer on Earth Day, you’re joining one of the world’s biggest volunteer events. In addition, you’ll have the chance to connect with people who share your passion for the environment. Whether you’re educating others or cleaning up, your efforts will make a difference. You can also sign up for the latest resources, home or online activities, and ways to spread the word to your friends on EARTHDAY.ORG.
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Words: Nozuko Tshangela
Photography: Pexels
