Celebrating Earth Day and Community Awareness
In preparation for Earth Day, what can you do to promote Earth Friendly awareness?
With the approaching celebration of Earth Day on April 22 you may want to start thinking of ways you can take an active part. What are some things you can do to contribute to environmental awareness with family members and in the community?
Kalamazoo has a variety of events planned including:
6 Earth Day ideas to get you and your community involved
1. Plant a tree
“He who plants a tree, plants hope”, said Lucy Larson. Check with the Arbor Day Foundation at www.arborday.org for tree planting tips. Plan a tree planning dedication. Group participants could sing songs or read poetry written especially for Earth Day awareness.
2. Organize a Community Clean up
Check with local public works for proper procedures and guidelines. A community park is a good choice. Instruct participants to pack a waste-free lunch as part of the Earth Day awareness. Enhance the project with word games, songs, and quizzes on Earth Friendliness. Other locations for cleanups include national parks, community waterways, and along highways. Make sure to stay in groups and avoid traffic.
3. Build a bird sanctuary
Build a habitat for our feathered friends. You can ensure that it is favorable for nesting, eating and social activity. Fill bird feeders with bird seed for a variety of different birds and provide suet feeders, which basically look like little cages with bird seed in them. You can even make your own and make it a family project. Birds need water for drinking and for frolicking and a birdbath will provide both. These simple activities will help your family enjoy nature as you bird watch together and try to identify all visiting species.
4. Moderate an outdoor class on Earth Friendliness
Invite the neighborhood children for an outdoor Earth Day Awareness party. Provide crafts and activities that teach Earth-friendliness. Many sites online have downloadable coloring books, craft ideas and puzzles with Earth day themes. Encourage the children to share their ideas on protecting the Earth, and make a pledge to do their part. Refreshments can be served and recycling can be encouraged.
5. Visit a Recycling plant
With family and friends take a trip to a recycling plant to learn the value of recycling. Gain a broader understanding of what household items that can be recycled. Children are especially fascinated with the recycling process and it is a good way for them to learn that the story does not end when the garbage leaves the curb.
6. Spread the Word
Send email reminders to friends and family and post on community bulletin boards. Wear brown and green colors to focus attention on environmental issues. Publicize upcoming Earth Day Awareness activities.
Be creative, no doubt you have ideas of your own. The important thing is to learn how to better take care of this planet we call home. Then pledge to make a difference.
How about you? What are some of the ways you are involved in Earth Day 2013? Let us know in the comments below!
