What is Earth Day?
Earth Day is a celebration that was created in 1970 to honor and emphasize the protection of the planet. In the years leading up to this holiday, the world was going through a new period of unprecedented industrialization and automation. Visible byproducts of these advancements, like air and water pollution, began to get the attention of people who were concerned about what this meant for human and environmental health. One of those concerned individuals was Wisconsin Senator, Gaylord Nelson who gathered support originally on college campuses through teach-ins on environmental hazards. Senator Nelson and his team’s idea gained traction across the nation and reached around 20 million Americans through demonstrations and events, just in the first year. 20 years later, in 1970 the celebration went global to include 141 countries and more than 200 million people. Since then the movement has only grown with each year and soon we get to honor it on the 51st anniversary.
Making Earth Day 2021 Special
Sadly, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 50th anniversary of Earth Day was not at the forefront of everyone’s minds last year. But that means, with all of the progress that has been made in the past year, we will be able to celebrate it almost-normally again on April 22nd. The theme for Earth Day this year is “Restore our Earth”. Considering the times and all that we have learned throughout the extent of the pandemic, this theme is very fitting.
During the pauses in activity and periods of quarantine we made a lot of discoveries regarding human involvement’s role in climate change. There was a visible reduction in air and water pollution, restoration of several ecosystems, rebounding of species, and more. With this information we can see the clear effect that our activity has on the planet and how important our participation is in events like Earth Day. This year still may look a little different but there are still countless ways to get out there and make a difference!
How Does Solar Energy Contribute?
Solar energy is a fantastic alternative to fossil fuels, which have a great impact on climate change. Renewable energy sources, like solar, are carbon-free and do not produce any other greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. This helps to prevent things like air and water pollution that have negative effects on the environment as well as human health. It has also reduced carbon emissions by 110 million metric tons. Solar and other renewable energy sources are growing rapidly in terms of advancements and popularity, as people are recognizing their benefits more and more.
Solar can have the greatest impact when it is widely used by as many people as possible. Despite the common misconception that it is too expensive, systems actually pay for themselves within a number of years. Whether it be for home owners or business owners, you can start saving money on your energy bills the second that the panels are turned on. Solar is the most affordable right now than ever before, and this trend will only grow. Renewable energy has already made an incredible impact on the environment but with even more interest from people, it could be a huge key to “Restoring Our Earth”.
How Has Renu Helped “Restore Our Earth”?
Renu is dedicated to supporting efforts to protect the Earth all year round! In our last 10 years of operating we have completed over 3,500 solar installations and off-set more than 2,500 tons of carbon. We believe in providing efficient fossil fuel alternatives like solar energy options because of the variety of environmental benefits that they offer.
- Solar panels do not produce any air pollution or carbon dioxide
- Are a renewable energy source so they don’t deplete the planet’s resources
- And do not require any water to generate electricity like coal and natural gas
We are passionate about bringing solar to homes, businesses, and non-profit organizations because we believe in the importance of sustainable and affordable energy solutions.
How Can You Celebrate This Year?
After everything that was happening last year on Earth Day we know how eagre people are to get out and participate in the festivities now. Even though the world is not quite back to normal yet, there are still several ways to participate in the celebration safely!
Here are some ideas on what you can do:
1. Spend time outside! You could go for a walk, run, hike, and so much more!
2. Start a garden where you can grow a wide variety of different plants and foods
3. Plant a tree
4. Organize a trash pick up, weather it just be you or a small group there are many places that need help getting cleaned up
5. Visit a local nature center, plant nursery, community garden, etc.
6. Participate in virtual Earth Day events
There are so many things that you can do that are not limited to this list. No matter how you choose to spend the day, be sure that you are having a positive impact! If you are interested in doing your part for the planet by going solar, contact us today for your free consultation.