Inspiration, Thoughts, Ideas, and Discussions: EARTH DAY

FUN FACTS – Did you know?

On April 22, 1970, was held the first Earth Day. Prior to April 22, 1970, there was no environmental movement. And many factories pumped toxins into the air, recycling was almost non-existent, and gas guzzling vehicles were the norm. The seeds of the modern movement had been planted, however, with the publishing of Rachel Carson's Silent Spring in 1962. This book raised the public's awareness of pollution and its effect on health.

And that Gaylord Nelson recognized there was a need for humans to become more environmentally aware and active in preserving our planet. He hoped that Earth Day would be a way to educate people about the importance of environmental protection. (Gaylord Nelson, a United States Senator from Wisconsin.)

Help celebrate Earth Day.

· Things to Do:

Clean up something in your city or neighborhood such as a park, beach, or river.

· Recycle—Recycle plastics or work to stop using them altogether. Use reusable bottles, utensils, and bags.

· Food—Eat local food, which has a smaller carbon footprint because it has not been shipped across the country.

· Conserve water.

· Save paper—Use online billing, print on two sides of paper, and use cloth towels.

· Travel—Be more environmentally conscious by walking or riding a bike, carpooling, and using public transportation.

· Light bulbs—Replace incandescent light bulbs with LED and fluorescent bulbs. Turn off lights when you are not near them. Install solar panels. Turn your thermostat down in the winter and up in the summer.