Be honest: When was the last time you took part in an Earth Day activity that made a real, lasting impact on the health of our planet? For most of us, it was back in high school, or maybe during college, if we were the ecologically-conscious type.
But now we’re busy adults. And won’t there will always be someone else willing to plant trees on Earth Day, or pick up garbage from the side of the road?
Well, maybe. But maybe not. And the state of the environment is getting worse—not better.
The atmosphere today holds more carbon dioxide than at any other time in the past 800,000 years, and that 25 percent of that carbon dioxide is produced in the United States. Did you know that the negative effects of climate change cost our country an estimated $100 billion each year?
There has never been a more important time to do something to improve the state of this big blue marble we call home. So when Earth Day 2016 rolls around (it’s on Friday, April 22), why not get together with a small group of friends or co-workers and organize a fun activity that will make you feel proud about the way you spent your weekend?
Here are a few ideas to get your started.
Plant a Tree
Planting trees is a classic Earth Day activity. It’s a process that cleans the air and adds much-needed oxygen to your environment. It also beautifies the space in which it’s planted, and it can be an excellent way to teach your children about the long-lasting positive effects that even small environmental actions can have.
At Mendham Gardens, we carry many fruit bearing trees including apple, peach, cherry, and pear. Growing your own fruit teaches children about the process of pollination and growth and will give them a better understanding of how our natural systems work together. Also, they get the added benefit of picking and eating a nutritious home-grown snack. They also have a great selection of ornamental trees like dogwoods, weeping cherries, pears, magnolias, etc.
To help you get started planting, we have a selection of garden supplies in New Jersey including gloves, spades, and lots of other planting supplies, available at any of Mendham Garden Center’s three locations.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
What better way to celebrate Earth than by enjoying its free, natural beauty every day? Since Earth Day 2016 falls on a Friday, consider celebrating with a weekend picnic in your favorite park. Take a moment to observe the flowers and trees in bloom, then enjoy a game of Frisbee or touch football. Or, take a long walk in a natural part of your town that you’ve never explored. A lazy weekend afternoon in any local park will help you appreciate the earth’s gifts in a new way.
Organize a Letter Writing Party
Writing a letter to your congressperson may seem like a pointless task, but it can be a valuable civic action, especially since so few concerned citizens take the time to do it. If you and a few friends share an environmental cause—whether it’s recycling, green construction, or the state of your city’s drinking water—write it down. Let your elected officials know how you feel.
Build Your First Compost Bin
Imagine the lessons you’ll teach your children by helping them create their first compost bin. Yes, it’s a slightly icky project, but it’s inexpensive and can be done in just a few hours. While there’s not enough room here to explain the entire composting process, it’s simple: place a large plastic trash can under your kitchen sink for collecting compostables, and build a backyard bin from old wood scraps or strong wire. If DIY isn’t your thing, Mendham Garden Center sells compost bins. A quick Google search will lead you to plenty of guides on how to make your own. Alternatively, you can buy a ready-made compost bin. The important part is that you’ll be keeping a significant amount of trash out of overflowing landfills, which is a wonderful thing.
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There are many other ways to celebrate Earth Day, and we encourage you to find an activity that speaks to you and your interests. More importantly, we urge you to find an activity you’ll be willing to continue, at least occasionally, throughout the year. After all, Earth Day is a reminder that we need to dedicate more time and energy to taking care of our planet regularly.
<p>Don’t forget: If you need any garden supplies for your Earth Day activities, Mendham Garden Center is your go-to source. Come see us at any of our three New Jersey locations, in Mendham, Chester, or Annandale. All three locations will have specials going on!!