As we embark on this year’s Earth Day celebration, we are thrilled to introduce our newest team member, Julie Sessions. With a background in science, technology, curriculum and education, Julie has over 30 years of experience and brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our team!
The month of April is synonymous with Earth Day. In April, the Earth begins to awaken from its winter slumber, entering a time of renewal, growth, and environmental awareness. Since its founding on April 22, 1970, Earth Day has continued to grow and evolve into a month-long celebration of global initiatives and goals dedicated to promoting conservation, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. According to Earthday.org, Earth Day is not a day, but a movement! Let’s take a look at some Earth Day activities teachers and students can take part in this year for improved energy conservation and sustainability.
This Year's Earth Day Theme is Planet vs Plastic
Sign the Global Plastics Treaty: Plastics Europe is a European trade association with a mission to end plastic pollution by 2040 through a circular economy in which all plastic applications are reused, recycled and responsibly managed. Check out the link above and sign the global treaty to help counteract plastic pollution and its far-reaching consequences!
Earth Day Toolkits: Here is the download link for the PDF booklet “Plastic Pollution Primer and Action Toolkit.” The toolkits include information and activities on the following topics:
Earth Hub: Looking to build your green muscle memory? If so, this hub is for you! Check out news, press releases, toolkits, facts sheets, posters and more.
Outdoor Clean-Up Challenge: Organize a community clean-up event where participants collect litter and debris from designated areas. Be sure to provide gloves, trash bags and recycling bins. Be sure to sort the recyclables and non-recyclables. This activity not only promotes environmental stewardship, but also fosters a sense of community.
Eco-Friendly Fashion Show or Arts and Crafts Show: Organize a fashion show or an arts and crafts activity using recycled or upcycled materials to create Earth Day-themed artwork or fashion designs. Provide recycled paper, cardboard, fabric scraps, and other reusable materials, along with eco-friendly art supplies such as non-toxic paints and glue. Encourage participants to express their creativity while promoting messages of conservation, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.
Environmental Careers
From protecting natural habitats to developing renewable energy solutions, environmental careers offer opportunities to make a meaningful difference in the world around us. Check out https://environmentalcareer.com/ to see the wide array of opportunities available to people who want their work to make the word a better place.
Here are just a few of the exciting careers available:
Environmental Scientist: Study the natural environment and develop solutions to environmental problems. Environmental scientists conduct research, collect and analyze data, and work on projects related to pollution, resource management and ecosystem conservation. Careers can include roles in government agencies, consulting firms, non-profit organizations, and research institutes.
Conservation Biologist: Focus on preserving and restoring biodiversity by protecting endangered species and managing natural habitats. Conservation biologists conduct field research, develop conservation strategies, and collaborate with stakeholders to promote sustainable practices. Careers include working with wildlife agencies, zoos, botanical gardens, conservation organizations or academic institutions.
Renewable Energy Engineer: Design and develop technologies that harness renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power. Renewable energy engineers work on projects to increase energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable energy solutions. Careers include working for energy companies, engineering firms, government agencies, and research labs.
As April unfolds and Earth Day approaches, let's seize the opportunity to engage in impactful activities that honor our planet and promote a sustainable future. By embracing conservation principles, fostering environmental awareness, and taking action together, we can make a positive impact on the health and well-being of our planet.
Let's celebrate Earth Day 2024 with enthusiasm, dedication, and a renewed commitment to protecting the natural world for generations to come!
Julie Sessions
Curriculum Consultant