Why Earth Day Still Matters

Today is Earth Day (I hope I’m not the first to tell you this) and it sure has changed since its first anniversary 40 years ago. Some say for the better, some will argue for worse. Some will tell you it doesn’t even matter anymore. That won’t be me. I do still think Earth Day matters, it just matters for different reasons today than it did 40 years ago. The problems we faced on the first Earth Day in 1970 were a lot more concrete and localized, which helped inspire action. Toxic chemicals spewing into our air and water tend to have that effect. Part of me wishes I were there to be a part of that original movement. Today we still have a major problem spewing from our power plants, tailpipes and factories. But carbon dioxide isn't as immediate or personal. To get people to care, I think we need to draw the connections between far off problems like melting ice water and rising sea levels with more immediate concerns: killer summer heat waves, more severe allergy seasons, increased asthma attacks. Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, drought. I could go on. And on. And on.

For some, Earth Day has become a time to reassess their actions in terms of environmentalism. Exactly how green are you? With "reduce, reuse and recycle" the theme of 100's of news articles, ads and television shows this week, you simple can't escape the topic - whether it's unhelpful greenwashing or a serious commitment to sustainability, the media is getting the word out. One thing that has changed since the first Earth Day is the way in which we get that word out. We live in an increasingly wired world where information is as ubiquitous as breathing. We have access to all the world's knowledge in the form of online news, blogs, and social media outlets- all from the comfort of our netbooks and smartphones. This presents an unprecedented opportunity to educate - on Earth Day and every day. Today’s technology extends our reach and can be a natural tool to spread awareness and enact change. Perhaps it's one way to make Earth Day matter again.

What's the end result of all my green talk? Maybe nothing, but I hope not. Maybe one of you tries a reusable water bottle or grocery tote, changes a light bulb or takes public transportation the next time you head to the city. Maybe by next year, you will up the ante by eating local and organic food or cutting down on meat consumption (go veggie, I promise it will change your life!). You never know why people decide to make a change. We all know someone out there that may just need a push in the right direction. Maybe it's you. I'm doing my part to spread the word because Earth Day DOES matter. Tag, you’re it.