By Kiana Velez
April 4, 2024

As Earth Day approaches it serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainability and caring for the planet. Each year, Earth Day offers an opportunity for reflection on the difficulties that the planet is facing such as climate change, loss of biodiversity, pollution, and deforestation.

Climate change has changed the earth’s patterns, resulting in rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and risks to the ecosystem. It poses a threat to human health, biodiversity, and global stability. Action needs to be taken to reduce greenhouse gas emission. Deforestation, habitat destruction, and pollution are driving a rapid decline in biodiversity worldwide. Species extinction rates are accelerating and this jeopardizes the stability and resilience of ecosystems that are essential for supporting life on earth. Pollution and wastes like plastics and industrial runoff are contaminating our environment and threatening human health. There has been an increase of plastic in oceans and waterways that has reached crisis levels for marine life and disrupting the marine ecosystem.

What can we do to make a difference?

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Reduce the consumption of energy in your home or workplace such as turning off the lights when not needed, unplugging electronics and maximizing natural light and ventilation. Reuse items whenever possible and recycle materials like paper, plastic, and metal. Minimize water usage and invest in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower. Choose sustainable transportation to reduce carbon by walking, biking, using public transport, or driving fuel-efficient vehicles.

Get involved in a community clean up. Try to take part in any activities that can help support a safe and clean environment, such as beach clean-ups, park clean-ups and other community led initiatives to remove any litter and pollution from natural areas.

As we celebrate Earth Day, let’s raise awareness by taking action and advocating for a positive change so we can build a more sustainable future for our planet and all it provides for us. Remember that even a small action can make a significant difference combined with the efforts of others!

Happy Earth Day!