It’s Almost Earth Day!

Earth Day is a yearly celebration that reminds us of the importance of preserving and protecting our planet. On this day, people around the world come together to raise awareness about environmental issues and take action to address them. Since its inception in 1970, Earth Day has grown into a global movement that inspires individuals and communities to make changes in their daily lives and advocate for policies that prioritize sustainability.

Earth Day is celebrated annually on April 22nd and marks the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970. Prior to the first Earth Day, environmental concerns were largely ignored by mainstream America. However, the publication of Rachel Carson’s book Silent Spring in 1962 raised public awareness and concern for the environment and its impact on human health. Earth Day 1970 provided a voice for this emerging environmental consciousness and put environmental concerns in the spotlight.

Sustainability is crucial to the future of our planet and our own well-being. As we continue to consume natural resources at an alarming rate, we are putting enormous pressure on the environment and depleting resources that are not renewable. Climate change, pollution, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity are just a few examples of the negative consequences of our unsustainable practices. It’s essential to adopt sustainable practices that allow us to meet our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own. By promoting sustainability, we can protect the environment, conserve resources, and ensure a more equitable and prosperous future for all.

Although more needs to be done, it is important to celebrate some sustainability wins as well this Earth Day! Here are some way that DC has recently become more sustainable.

1. Washington, DC ranked highest for sustainable LEED-certified buildings in 2022, and has more of these buildings than any other city in the United States.
2. DC has cut its citywide carbon footprint by 31 percent since 2006, as of 2020.
3. DC is one of the top cities when it comes to green roofs.
4. DC is involved in science-backed climate action solutions.
5. Capital Bikeshare has grown immensely since first launching as the first bike-sharing service in the US.
6. DC is considered one of the greenest cities in the US.
7. DC passed the Racial Equity Achieves Results ACT (REACH Act) in 2020.
8. The city is working toward solar energy with the Solar expansion Act of 2022.

Read more about DC’s sustainability achievements and progress here.

• Use less plastic. Reusable items are more sustainable and are cost effective in the long run.
• Create less waste and consider composting.
• Look into clean energy.
• Avoid fast fashion and be more mindful of what you purchase.
• Shop locally.
• Use public transportation.
• Be more conscious about what you buy and the products you’re supporting.

Washington D.C. is home to many beautiful parks and natural areas that offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. From hiking trails to picnicking areas, there are a variety of ways to get outside and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re strolling through Rock Creek Park or exploring the National Mall, taking the time to appreciate nature can help you unwind, reduce stress, and improve your overall well-being. By valuing the nature around us, we can also take steps to protect it for future generations. By doing so, we can help preserve the natural beauty of our surroundings and ensure that they remain a source of enjoyment and inspiration for years to come.