Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22nd, is a holiday dedicated to spreading awareness and celebrating the progress of  environmental protections. Earth Day traces its history back to the late 1960s, a time of growing awareness about environmental degradation and the need for action to address pressing ecological concerns. The first Earth Day was officially celebrated in 1970. Every year, Earth Day reminds us to spread awareness of environmental conservation and sustainable living, but it is important to celebrate the day by taking real action in addition to spreading awareness. 

Walking Mountains celebrates Earth Day annually with Climate Action Week. Climate Action Week is a series of events, culminating with Earth Day, that inspire climate action and highlight local climate action partners! Throughout the week, events are held that provide our community with tangible actions they can take to make the earth a better place. Even if you can’t make it to all (or any) of these events there are lots of things you can do to take action this Earth Day!

• Use social media to spread action, not just awareness. 

Every Earth Day, you see many posts about everything from the beauty of our natural spaces to alarming statistics about pollution. While social media is a powerful tool for building awareness, it is time to move past awareness and into action. Consider pairing that alarming statistic about plastic in the oceans with an article that shares how to incorporate reusable products that will reduce your plastic consumption or a link to contact your local elected official to advocate for Extended Producer Responsibility legislation. The Walking Mountains blog has a wealth of tips on how to reduce waste and many other sustainability topics. 

• Serve your community! 

Taking action is always a great way to curb anxiety, feel connected to your community, and have fun. Whether you are joining a formal environmental restoration volunteer project, such as the ones featured during Climate Action Week, or picking up a bit of trash on the side of the road, making our community a better place is a great way to celebrate Earth Day. This kind of volunteering will always leave you feeling better and if you get some friends or family together, it can be a blast! 

• Make one sustainable switch. 

Often, this column features ways to make your life more sustainable. Starting to compost, green commuting, getting a home energy assessment, planting waterwise landscaping. Big or small, there are so many ways we can all make our homes better for the earth. However, with so many options, it can sometimes be stressful to know where to start. Earth Day is the perfect time to take initiative and pick one thing to get started on. Whether you switch a lightbulb or text your coworker to start carpooling, Walking Mountains challenges you to make one sustainable switch this year! 

Let’s take  action this Earth Day to get momentum going on sustainable changes that will support a healthier and happier planet for everyone! 

Elizabeth Baer is the Sustainability Fellow at Walking Mountains.