More than half of my life has been spent in complete darkness about the existence of a day referred to as “The World Earth day”. I have been completely oblivious to the fact that there is a day dedicated to the planet because the way I have led most of my life so far it wouldn’t really have mattered. I mean think about it, in your general day to day life, do you really feel the need to thank the planet, appreciate it or a bigger question think about whether its cared for? I personally have paid no heed to it for the first at least 35 years of my life, big deal, how could I have anyways contributed?
That's the biggest question that I see people asking even now, HOW? And How will it matter in the bigger scheme of things, significant change in weather is a usual conversation starter with old friends and new, the point here is whether a single initiative to care for the planet would be enough to make a realisable change? The answer is usually no but what’s also true is that drops make the ocean and hence that smallest wave of change initiated in our households can have a ripple effect. Worse case it doesn’t, even then what do we have to lose? So why not try….
The importance of International Earth Day
Earth day or I would like to call it the Planet day was indeed in existence much before I was born, it's A DAY which demonstrated support for environmental protection. International Earth Day is an annual reminder that climate change has a major impact on our planet, our lives and our future. It can also increase awareness and drive change. International Earth Day continues to evolve and add value to sustainability movements across the globe.
-
International Earth Day provides a day to focus on education about environmental issues affecting our planet.
-
International Earth Day sets aside a day each year to reflect on the significance of the planet's health and what we can all do to positively impact our environment.
-
International Earth Day has influenced major national policy in the past and will continue to do so.
So essentially International Earth Day is a reminder to us to get our act together, it doesn’t start or end with this day, caring for the planet and treating it with respect is an ongoing process. Again having said that we don’t really need to step out and join a demonstration alone to show our support. Taking small steps to conserve, reuse and reduce our consumption are the most critical in enabling ourselves and in turn the planet.
How to contribute to World Earth Day every day
Here are some of the ways you can participate in International Earth Day today and every day.
Participate in advocacy: One of the best ways to make a difference is through advocacy. You can sign petitions and participate in International Earth Day events at work and in your community. You can also write to your local, state and national officials. Ask them to support legislation that protects our planet.
Sustainable fashion: Fast fashion negatively impacts the environment by increasing clothing waste and pollution from textile production. Donate or sell your unwanted clothing instead of throwing items away to reduce waste and give your clothes a new life. You can also make an impact by shopping at thrift stores, buying fewer new clothing items and supporting brands that intentionally support sustainability in their production processes.
Take part in a community or global cleanup: you can search for cleanup opportunities in your area or connect with a local organisation to offer your support.
Make your next meal plant-based: Choosing more plant-based meals can help lower carbon emissions and reduce the impact of food production on the environment. Transition your breakfast, lunch or dinner to plant-based options and look for plant-based meals at restaurants and eateries you frequent. While you can opt for a fully vegan diet, choosing one plant-based meal a day can still have an impact.
Get inspired: Explore ways to take action and make a difference throughout the year. A few standout ideas include picking up trash while you run (hello, plogging), switching to reusable bags, meal prepping and growing a container garden on your patio.
Join the OurBetterPlanet community by writing to us: The OurBetterPlanet community organises lake cleanup drives, plantation drives, DIY workshops and curates markets with products that are made from the Earth and for the Earth, encouraging individual action on climate change. You can join the community to learn more about how to get started, small steps include daily tasks like meditating, eating a vegetarian or vegan meal, carpooling or taking public transportation.
Reconsider your consumption and make small shifts like moving to a beeswax wrap instead of a plastic wrap, carrying a refillable water bottle instead of buying a disposable one every time you step out. Try carrying a tote bag with you when you go out vegetable shopping, use refillable containers to shop for grocery and pantry essentials. Remember, every small
action adds up to make a significant impact. Let's work together to create a sustainable future for generations to come.
"Explore our collection of sustainable products and make your International Earth Day celebration more eco-friendly!"
