An idea that started off as a seedling has grown into a full canopy that encompasses all aspects of daily life on the planet.
Earth Day began more than 30 years ago to highlight the destructive practices of humans which were quickly leading to the demise of the environment.
Education on CFCs, clear-cut logging and recycling led to better manufacturing and resource harvesting to reduce the impact on the planet.
The good news is that the activities surrounding Earth Day were successful in reaching people and changing their actions.
Earth Day now happens every day of the year as people recycle not only cans and bottles, but food waste as well. Municipalities are ending cosmetic pesticide use and promote food security by allowing households to have backyard chickens and gardens.
In a way, Earth Day evolved.
It’s not the huge event it once was, yet it’s been more successful than anyone anticipated, spawning annual events like the Shoreline Cleanup, which highlights the garbage and waste that ends up in oceans, lakes and rivers every year.
That’s not to say Earth Day is no longer relevant. In developing countries, recycling is still unheard of. Economies use cheap fuel like coal to power manufacturing and construction. Earth Day’s educational message must be exported to other countries.
Closer to home, Earth Day and the environmental movement takes the next step. On Sunday (April 22), the Wild Foods Festival offers educational presentations and information on sustainable farming, food security and native plants.
Earth Day succeeded in teaching people to treat the planet with respect – an idea that will hopefully grow with future generations.