Ten Ways to Celebrate Earth Day

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” —Margaret Mead

The entrance of Penn State Great Valley's Main Building, framed by trees and flowers
  1. Eat your veggies
    Adopting a plant-based diet can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve water and land usage. Incorporating one vegetarian meal into your diet each week can make a difference!
  2. Walk, bike, or take public transportation
    Personal vehicles are a major contributor to climate change. Cars also have a negative impact on the quality of our air, soil, water, and personal health. On Earth Day, walk, bike, or take advantage of public transportation to decrease your carbon footprint.
  3. Go paperless
    Save the trees! Set aside time today to review your accounts and sign up for paperless billing.
  4. Get crafty
    One person’s trash is another person’s treasure. We often view items as disposable, but many can be re-used or repurposed. There are tons of creative upcycling ideas online to inspire you.
  5. Make sustainable swaps
    Decrease waste by swapping out disposable products for sustainable ones. For example, switch from paper towel to cloth napkins, replace your incandescent light bulbs with LEDs, purchase bamboo toothbrushes instead of plastic, or grab a reusable water bottle to replace single-use plastic bottles.
  6. Fix it
    We tend to dispose of worn, damaged, or broken items. Learn how to maintain or repair your belongings to lengthen their lifespan.
  7. Spruce up your yard
    Lawn maintenance consumes a tremendous amount of water and gasoline. Additionally, mowing your lawn and/or applying pesticides destroys critical habitats for pollinators and other wildlife. Consider how you might incorporate native plants into your yard to reduce the size of your “lawn” and help bolster a diverse ecosystem.
  8. Set yourself up for success
    Making sustainable lifestyle changes can be challenging. Make it easy for yourself. Do you frequently forget your reusable grocery bags? Place a stash in your car. Do you eat lunch at work? Keep a reusable fork, knife, spoon, and napkin in your office. Do you forget to turn off your lights? Grab a smart plug and set up a schedule so your lights turn off automatically.
  9. Speak up
    While every little bit makes a difference, sweeping changes can be made by lawmakers and large organizations. Be vocal. Let them know that the planet and its inhabitants are more important than their bottom line.
  10. Connect with nature
    Take a hike, look at the stars, or spend some time in the garden. Cultivating an appreciation for our planet will motivate you to continue making sustainable changes in your life.