FRIDAY, APRIL 22: What started as a political movement born out of necessity in response to current events has evolved into a worldwide initiative with deep spiritual connections, as the world celebrates the 46th annual Earth Day. Spearheaded by Sen. Gaylord Nelson in 1970, the Earth Day Network—now a powerful force behind Earth Day and environmental action on several levels—has dubbed this year’s theme, “Trees for the Earth.” Planting enough trees is, according to the organization, one of the best ways to effectively clean our polluted air and effectively assist in several other pressing environmental issues. With a goal of planting 7.8 billion trees, the Earth Day Network calls on volunteers, financial supporters and—on a grassroots level—everyone. The Earth Day Network encourages religious participation by explaining that, “We encourage all people of faith across the globe to join us on Earth Day.”
This year, the Earth Day Network explains:
“In 1970, the year of our first Earth Day, the movement gave voice to an emerging consciousness, channeling human energy toward environmental issues. Forty-six years later, we continue to lead with groundbreaking ideas and by the power of our example.
And so it begins. Today. Right here and right now. Earth Day is more than just a single day — April 22, 2016. It’s bigger than attending a rally and taking a stand.
This Earth Day and beyond, let’s make big stuff happen. Let’s plant 7.8 billion trees for the Earth. Let’s divest from fossil fuels and make cities 100% renewable. Let’s take the momentum from the Paris Climate Summit and build on it.
Let’s start now. And let’s not stop.”
Faith-based resources: Convenient links will take you to statements of concern for the Earth from a host of religious groups. Need some inspiring material to carry with you into your congregation? You’ll find plenty of choices from that online starting point.
EARTH DAY IDEAS: EVERYDAY CHOICES AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
Engineers may design eco-friendly energy sources and leaders support a “green economy,” but Earth Day Network insists it’s everyday people—those who live sustainably by conserving resources, recycling, buying organic produce and performing other individual acts—who truly make a difference on a global scale.
Earth Day Network also coordinates and inspires several events across the U.S., which includes the Earth Month Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Fair (STEM Fair); the Environmental Film Festival; and the Green Fashion Show. The STEM Fair was underwritten by NASA, Grant Thornton, Chobani and Copia.