This year Earth Day is taking place on April 22nd. And as it approaches, it’s time to re-evaluate our habits and take action to make our world a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable place. This year let’s unite and support initiatives that inspire us all to become environmental champions.
Here are five sustainable practices you can incorporate into your daily life to celebrate Earth Day:
Embracing a Plant-Based Diet
An effective way to reduce your carbon footprint is by embracing a plant-based diet and incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your meals. According to a study published in Science, switching to a plant-based diet can reduce your food-related carbon emissions by up to 73%. By consuming more plant-based foods and reducing your meat and dairy intake, you can significantly impact the environment and promote a more sustainable lifestyle.
Adopting Sustainable Commuting Habits
Transportation plays a significant role in greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada, transportation accounted for 25% of Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions in 2019.
Commit to adopting more sustainable and creative commuting habits this Earth Day. Consider walking, cycling or using public transportation as alternatives to driving alone. For those who need to drive, try carpooling or using electric or hybrid vehicles to minimize emissions. Explore unique commuting options like electric bikes, electric skateboards, or even unicycles to add a fun and eco-friendly twist to your daily commute.
Reducing Household Waste
Reducing waste is essential for a sustainable future. Begin by assessing your daily waste production and identify areas for improvement. Implement the three R’s (reduce, reuse, recycle) in your household using reusable bags, containers, and bottles, opting for products with minimal packaging, and recycling as much as possible. Additionally, consider composting your food scraps to decrease the amount of waste sent to landfills and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
Conserving Energy at Home
Simple changes in your daily habits can help conserve energy and reduce your environmental footprint. Turn off lights and electronic devices when not in use, unplug chargers, and switch to energy-efficient appliances and lighting. Adjust your thermostat settings, insulate your home, and consider investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to reduce your impact on the environment further.
Supporting Local Environmental Initiatives
As part of Earth Day celebrations, consider engaging with local environmental initiatives in your community. For example, in Vancouver, there are a couple of events that showcase the commitment to sustainability:
Telus’s one-day special event at Science World:
On April 22, 2023, Telus is hosting an event where guests can receive a free day pass to Science World by bringing in a pre-loved mobile phone or smart device to be recycled. Attendees can explore the Telus interactive learning station to learn how recycling supports biodiversity and the environment and take home fun prizes. This event is an excellent example of promoting electronic waste recycling and raising awareness about its environmental impact.
Party for the Planet in Surrey:
The City of Surrey will host its 12th annual Party for the Planet at Surrey Civic Plaza on April 29, 2023. Presented by TD, this free event offers entertainment and activities for the whole family and is conveniently located near the Surrey Central SkyTrain station. Party for the Planet is an excellent opportunity to engage with the community while celebrating sustainability and environmental awareness.
By participating in and supporting local environmental initiatives like these, you can make a meaningful impact on your local environment and strengthen your community’s commitment to sustainability.
Earth Day allows us to reflect on our relationship with the environment and take meaningful steps toward a greener, more sustainable future. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for ourselves, our communities and future generations. Happy Earth Day!