Happy Earth Month 2024!
In this guide, we’ll share what Earth Month is all about, this year’s theme, and how you can get the whole family on board, from curious kids to those seemingly stuck in their ways.
What Is Earth Day?
Earth Day is a global movement that empowers millions to champion environmental protection.
It occurs every year with the dual purpose of celebrating achievements and progress that’s been made and raising awareness of the work that still needs to be done to protect the Earth for future generations.
So when did Mama Earth’s big day begin?
In the groovy 70s, after shocking images of the Lake Erie Fire and Santa Barbara oil spill came out, 20 million Americans came together to demand a cleaner and healthier environment. This led to the very first Earth Day and the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency.
25 years later and the party is still going strong!
When Is Earth Day?
Earth Day occurs on April 22nd every year. It’s an annual reminder of our responsibility to address environmental challenges and the power of coming together to create change.
What Has Earth Day Achieved?
Since the very beginning, Earth Day has been Getting. Things. Done. Here are some of its top achievements:
1970
- Formation of the Environmental Protection Agency
- Passing of the Clear Air Act
- Passing of the Clean Water Act
- Passing of the Endangered Species Act
1990
- Gaylord Nelson, the creator of Earth Day, was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
- The Earth Day Special aired on ABC
- It influenced the formation of the 1992 United Nations Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro
2010
- Launch of A Billion Acts of Green, the world’s largest environmental service campaign
2016
- Signing of The Paris Climate Agreement - the United Nations chose Earth Day as the day 175 world leaders would commit to climate action by signing the Paris Climate Agreement. This event currently holds the record for most world leaders ever to sign an accord in a single day.
And that’s just to name a few! Check out the official Earth Day successes page for more.
Global Theme For Earth Month 24'
The official theme for Earth Month 2024 is ‘‘Planet Vs. Plastic’’. This serves as a rallying cry to address one of our time's most pressing environmental issues - plastic pollution.
- 1 in 3 fish caught for human consumption now contain plastic (Marine Pollution Bulletin)
- It’s predicted that by 2050 there’ll be more plastic than fish in the oceans (Plastic Soup)
- Only 9% of plastic ever produced has been recycled (OECD)
- Around 99% of plastic is made from fossil fuels (Plastic Pollution Coalition)
- 700 species have been affected by plastic pollution (National Geographic)
- Each year, the average American ingests more than 70,000 microplastics in their drinking water. (Earth Day)
Plastic is like a toxic ex. It sticks around way longer than you want it to and it seems impossible to escape. The 4 R’s of sustainability can help you break ties:
Refuse
- Refuse plastic straws and bring your own reusable one
- Refuse plastic bags at the store and bring your own tote bag.
Reduce
- Reduce the amount of things you buy.
- Reduce the amount of single-use plastic you use.
- Buy products with no, little, or zero-waste packaging
Reuse
- Invest in products that can be used time and time again.
- Repurpose and up-cycle items instead of buying new ones.
Recycle
- Get clear about what you can and can’t recycle and only buy products with clear and easy recycling options.
At Earth Hero, we feel super aligned with the "Planet vs. Plastic" theme. Our commitment to offering sustainable alternatives and eco-friendly products is more relevant than ever. This Earth Month and beyond, let's work together to combat plastic pollution and create a world where our planet triumphs over toxic plastics.
How To Celebrate Earth Month 24'
Wondering how to get the whole family involved in Earth Month 2024? Earth Hero has your blueprint for transforming your house into a hub of environmental heroes.
Here are some ideas along with sustainable product recs to get you started:
Newbies
Helping a newbie get started? Begin with simple swaps that easily slide into their existing routine, like a bamboo toothbrush instead of a plastic one, or a mesh produce bag they can bring to the supermarket on their next grocery shop.
If they’re keen to delve into the world of eco-living, suggest our Hero Essentials Kit, with 12 zero-waste items from ethical brands to help you run a low-waste household.
The Hero Essentials Kit is the perfect Kit for beginners. Remember, meet people where they’re at on their sustainable journey to encourage them along the way. No one wants to be thrown into the deep end!
Parents
Green Commute
If possible, opt for cycling, carpooling, or walking for the school run to cut back carbon emissions.
Energy conservation
Turn off lights and appliances when not in use, and consider investing in energy-efficient home upgrades.
Sustainable shopping
Choose locally grown fruits and vegetables that are in season and bring your own reusable product bag.
Chemical-free cleaning
Choose chemical-free and natural cleaning products to reduce plastic packaging and toxins.
You might like:
- Dropps Dishwasher Detergent Pods
- Biobag Compostable Kitchen Bag
- PlantPaper Bamboo Toilet Paper
- Laundry Detergent Sheets
Pet Parents
Local Walks
Instead of driving to the start point of your walks, explore local dog-friendly spots.
Eco-Friendly Pet Care
Choose natural and biodegradable pet products, from recycled plastic leashes to locally sourced dog food.
DIY Pet Toys
Get creative with DIY pet toys using recycled materials and odd socks to minimize waste and keep your furry friend entertained.
You might like:
Kids
Outdoor Exploration
Encourage outdoor activities to foster a love for nature, whether it's hiking, bird watching, or gardening.
Learn Through Play
Use eco-themed games and activities to teach kids about the importance of environmental conservation in a fun and engaging way.
Second Life of Toys
When the kids get bored of their toys, show them fun ways to repurpose and upcycle, so they learn the importance of reducing waste and how to give their things another life.
You might like:
College students
Zero-Waste Dorm Life
Embrace a minimalist and zero-waste lifestyle by using reusable containers, utensils, glass jars, and water bottles. It’ll save you money too!
Energy-Efficient Habits
Turn off your electronics when not they’re not in use, and utilize natural light to reduce energy consumption.
Eco Road Trips
Got a weekend trip planned? Transfer your toiletries into small reusable containers instead of buying travel versions and pack plenty of snacks in reusable containers.
You might like:
- Reusable Beeswax Wraps
- Refillable Travel Size Shampoo
- Ruled Decomposition Notebooks
- Champ Lite 5K Portable Charger
Know someone curious to find out more?
We love that they’re interested in Earth Month 2024. Share some useful resources like our blog, documentaries, podcasts, and books on the planet. Here’s an interesting list by The Green Blue for inspiration.
Struggling to convince someone ‘stuck in their ways’?
We get it. If you’ve used toothpaste twice a day for your entire life, the prospect of using toothpaste tablets instead can be daunting.
For these people, the best option is to emphasize the importance of sustainable choices, figure out why they might be resisting them, and find effective and targeted solutions for them.
For example, if they think zero waste is too expensive, let them know a Swedish Dishcloth can replace up to 17 rolls of paper towels saving them so much money.
If they think it’s too different from what they’re used to, let them know that David’s Toothpaste works exactly like your usual toothpaste, but more sustainable packaging and ingredients!
Everyone Can Be An Earth Hero!
Earth Month reminds us of the role of community in making lasting changes, and we’re so happy to have you as a part of ours!
We hope this post has given you some insight into what Earth Month is all about as well as inspiration for how you might celebrate it and get those around you to join in too.
Share your journey, inspire others, and let's make Earth Month 2024 the best one yet. Remember, everyone can be an Earth Hero!
