Five actions to take for World Earth Day 2022

BySusanna Gevorgyan

Five actions to take for World Earth Day 2022

Since 1970, billions of people around the world have mobilized their efforts every April to mark World Earth Day to focus the attention of people towards emerging environmental issues. This year, World Earth Day will be marked on 22 April with the theme of “Invest in Our Planet”. Amid the urgent issues of climate change, the organizers of the event call on everyone to take steps and devote themselves to a sustainable future. “We need to act (boldly), innovate (broadly), and implement (equitably). It’s going to take all of us. All in. Businesses, governments, and citizens — everyone accounted for, and everyone accountable. A partnership for the planet,” says Earth Day’s official website.

With more than 190 countries being engaged, Earth Day 2022 aims to trigger local and international conversations, calling leaders to act now and urgently. On an individual level, this remarkable event suggests activities and challenges that can be undertaken by anyone.

Minimize food waste and eat environmentally friendly

Globally, people waste almost one-third of their food which is 11% of the total food production. To support the planet, minimize your food waste, change your diet, eat less meat, buy from local producers, and calculate your foodprint. In addition, compost leftovers and food waste instead of throwing these away.

Fight against plastic pollution

Kathleen Rogers, President of EarthDay.org noted: “From harming marine and human health to clogging our waterways and littering communities, plastic pollution is threatening the survival of our shared planet. Cleanup is just one-way individuals can get involved to combat this critical issue. For Earth Day 2022, ‘Invest In Our Planet’ means taking action and participating in community measures to help solve the issue of mismanaged waste.”

According to data published by the Ellen Macarthur Foundation, every year 86 million tons of plastics are produced globally, of which only 14% are recycled, meaning that 73.96 million tons of plastics annually end up in nature. Within your efforts towards a sustainable future, minimize your plastic consumption by fighting against plastic packaging and single-use plastics and instead use reusable utensils, bottles, and carrier bags. In addition, don’t miss any opportunity to pick up plastic trash when you’re outside, organize community clean-ups and participate in the Great Global Cleanup.

Reduce your transport use

27% of greenhouse gas emissions were generated by the transportation sector in 2020 in the US alone. Minimize your transport use by switching to clean transportation. Cycle or walk whenever you can instead of using the car or public transport.

Switch to green energy and minimize your energy consumption

Electricity production, the second-largest emitter after the transportation sector in the US, generated 25% of greenhouse gas emissions in 2020. If they are available, switch to green energy sources like solar or wind power or just simply turn off your heating or lights when not in use.

Let people know your opinion

Lobbying for sustainable solutions and speaking up about environmental issues are probably the most powerful actions everyone can take. Don’t miss the opportunity to talk about global warming and pollution, share your story and explain how you are fighting climate change or deforestation. Let people know how you incorporate simple acts of green into your daily life. Participate in the Global Earth Challenge.