‘Climate Action’ is the theme for the 50th Earth Day Anniversary

From a global perspective, we are faced with adapting our habitual way of living. These moments of crisis help highlight our core values and help us focus on the health and well-being of our family, friends and community.

‘Climate Action’ is the theme for the 50th Earth Week anniversary. Although neither comfort or solace is found in the suffering of many, every global crisis presents an opportunity for the world to unite and evolve.

Let us take a moment to refocus our attention to the positive impacts that support our environment and how the earth has benefited during the COVID era. Over the past few months air quality has improved as there has been stark reduction in pollution levels as well as C02 emissions and greenhouse gases across the globe; furthermore, animals have started making their way back into public spaces and a hole in our ozone is starting to repair itself. There is no question that our Mother Earth is enjoying the opportunity to take a deep cleansing breath!

Are these changes sustainable?

Will this change in focus as a result of the pandemic stick or will we just return to old habits?

To commemorate this Golden anniversary benchmark, we have compiled a list of 50 simple practices that we can take action on to serve our planet and reduce our carbon, eco and water footprints now and when the world is ready for us to move forward as ‘normal’. Furthermore, with our mild weather and access to local produce, many of these practices are easily accomplished here in Windsor and Essex County throughout the majority of the year.

50 simple practices to serve our planet

Buy durable for less waste
Less driving and travel means lower emissions
More home cooking and family time
Pick up litter while you’re out walking, on a hike or at the park
Start a backyard compost
When conditions permit, walk or ride your bike to run errands to reduce emissions
Plant a garden
More quality family time and less screen time
Buy local
Encourage sharing and helping within your community
Dry your clothes on the line
Recycle properly
Eat low on the food chain – more fruits, vegetable and grains
Eat less meat and dairy products
Use natural cleaners
Use reusable containers and straws
Buy products made from recycled materials
Get outdoors and plug in to nature
Open windows for fresh air before turning on air conditioning
Make a meal plan to avoid food waste
Freeze leftovers
Choose organic and local foods that are in season
Conserve water
Wash laundry in cold water
Do an energy audit of your home
Look for energy star appliances and products
Turn lights and tv off when you leave a room
Consider the benefits of a hybrid vehicle
Get politically active – support climate change
When running errands try to combine them to reduce the amount of driving
Change incandescent light bulbs to LEDS
Use a low flow shower head or toilet
Turn your hot water heater down
Simplify your life – embrace a minimalist lifestyle
Install a programmable thermostat
Commit to green practices
Seal heating and cooling ducts and keep on top of equipment maintenance
Add insulation, weatherstipping or caulking to windows, doors, attic hatches
Buy used or refurbished
Pack a waste free lunch as often as possible
Carry a reusable mug
Use paperless technology
Use rechargeable batteries
Purchase refillable ink cartridges
Borrow from family and friends instead of buying
Adjust your driving style and vehicle maintenance to improve gas mileage
Consider solar power
Use natural, cruelty free products
Plant trees
Lead by example. Teach your children the value of being thrifty and socially responsible