Everyday Ways to Celebrate Earth Day
As we wrap up Earth Month 2024, we want to reflect on the importance of Earth Day and the celebration of nature to remind ourselves of how we can celebrate our environment throughout the year. This year, many organizations throughout the Salt Lake Valley came together to clean up the Jordan River, plant trees, discuss the connections between nature and religion, learn about restoring our Great Salt Lake, and come together as a community to Party for the planet.
The origins of Earth Day date back over 50 years ago, to raise awareness of caring for our Earth by ensuring we have clean air and water. While Earth Day does an excellent job of bringing communities together to have a positive impact on the natural world, it is essential to note that world awareness days, such as this one, do not always do the best job of iterating the importance of continued engagement with conservation and climate resolution and justice efforts.
To keep the momentum from Earth Day alive and ensure we take action in our everyday lives to support the health and well-being of the planet, we have highlighted some ways in which you can take everyday action. Because Nature and Human Health Utah aims to highlight the connection between the planet's and humans' health, the suggestions below emphasize actions that benefit your health and the environment's health.
Get Moving with Active Transportation
Try walking, biking, or taking public transit when possible. With the weather being beautiful right now, it's the perfect time to get out of your car and use your body to get where you need to go! Opting out of personal vehicles reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, even if it's just for a day. Incorporating physical activity into your transportation (even if it's just a 5-minute walk to the bus stop!) can lower your blood pressure and reduce stress. I have a less stressful morning anytime I can take the bus or use my electric bicycle over driving!
Grow Your Own Garden
Growing your own fruits and vegetables in your yard or in a community garden (Creekside Community Garden and the Rose Park Neighborhood Center Project both have ADA garden plots) will not only give you delicious produce all summer and fall, but it will limit the impact you are having on harmful farming practices and long-haul transportation of produce. Not only is gardening good for your taste buds, but it is also good for your health! Gardening burns calories, relieves stress, and gets you outdoors and in the sun (be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen!). To see a complete list of the health benefits of gardening, check out our brochure! Are you gardening on a budget? Here are some tips on reducing the costs of starting your own garden.
If home gardening isn't an option, perhaps buying local produce is! Buying organic produce from local farmers is better for your health, the environment, and the local economy. This summer, there are several farmers' markets to check out. You can see a list from Salt Lake City's Sustainability department here.
Consider replacing your cleaning products.
Harsh chemicals in cleaning products can impact water quality in both local water systems and, eventually, larger water systems and the aquatic life that occupy those waters. Replacing your cleaning products with plant-based or "environmentally friendly" options can improve the environment and your help. Exposure to harsh chemicals in cleaning products can contribute to poor indoor air quality and respiratory concerns. Baking soda, vinegar, castile soap, and even lemons are effective and cheap natural cleansers.
Do you have more ideas for ways to improve the environment and health? Share them with us at natureandhealthgroup@gmail.com!