First held on April 22, 1970, it has become an annual ritual to celebrate Earth Day on this date. Earth Day is a special annual event to raise awareness to protect our planet. People come forward globally to celebrate the day and take steps for a sustainable future. Activities like planting trees, picking up garbage, etc., are organised worldwide. There are multiple ways one can get involved and contribute. 

Let's explore different ways of celebrating Earth Day 2023 and doing our part to preserve the planet.

History And Importance Of This Special Day

In 1970, US Senator Gaylord Nelson organised a nationwide campaign to raise environmental awareness. Different rallies took place to educate people on the importance of Earth Day. Twenty years later, more than 140 countries started to celebrate this wonderful day worldwide. 

There are different ways of celebrating and spreading awareness. From sharing Earth Day quotes to organising Earth Day activities, below are a few things you can do.

1. Collecting Waste

Not everyone is aware of the pros and cons of using a product. For instance, a plastic bottle stays in a landfill for around 450 years, leading to land and water pollution. However, you can control its impact on the environment in different ways. The easiest way to start collecting waste rationally would be to segregate recyclable and non-recyclable waste. You can also collect kitchen waste and start doing composting.  You can be a waste warrior this year and collect such waste products. The collected waste can be turned into something useful like flower planters, bird feeders, etc. You can also switch to earth-friendly brands and biodegradable products to limit waste production.

1. Planting A Tree

More trees are cut down than grown each year. Looking at climate change, it is becoming necessary to plant more trees. All living creatures on the planet depend on oxygen to survive. Trees are needed for fresh air as they help produce more oxygen. Hence, planting a tree becomes crucial for a sustainable future. You can also educate your kids on the importance of planting trees. Give your kids DIY gardening kits, plantable stationery, etc., and let them learn while having fun.

1. Reducing Carbon Footprints

Different Earth Day themes are chosen each year. Restoring our earth, climate action, and protecting our species are popular previous themes. Investing in our planet is the theme for 2023. One of the most effective ways to do so is by reducing carbon footprints. Making eco-friendly upgrades in your daily life helps create carbon offsets. For a reduced impact, you can use organic clothes, ceramic dinner sets, natural beauty products, etc. 

1. Limiting Water Usage

Even though Earth is made of 71% water, drinking water is still scarce. Therefore, saving water is crucial for survival. You can save water by closing the tap in between when brushing your teeth or washing dishes. You can use a bucket instead of a shower to bathe. Educate your kids on the same and make them responsible citizens. Purchasing clothes made from fabrics like organic cotton is suggested as they require less water for production. 

1. Reducing Pollution

With an increase in pollution, nature and human health are both getting affected. This year, take steps to create a greener tomorrow. Use a bicycle or walk down when travelling a shorter distance. Avoid travelling in cars when unnecessary and opt for public transport wherever possible.

1. Reuse And Recycle

Reusing, recycling, repurposing and upcycling are great concepts for a sustainable lifestyle. Millions of products are manufactured yearly, and more are thrown in the dump. Instead of buying a new product each time, we can instead reuse. You can also switch to upcycled products. They involve using minimal natural resources during production and reducing material going into the landfill. It will simultaneously reduce factory pollution and help save the environment.