On Friday, April 22, organizations all around D.C. will celebrate Earth Day.
Climate change, largely caused by human activity and carbon emissions in the atmosphere, has increased Earth’s average surface temperature by 2 degrees Fahrenheit since the late 19th century, wreaking havoc on the planet. As the rate of natural disasters and hazards continues to increase, it will cause further stress to the Earth’s ecosystems.
“Considering the urgency of this crisis, it’s critical that Americans have access to information and resources so that we can all play a role in protecting our environment, our health, and vulnerable communities. ” EPA administrator Michael S. Regan said in a climate change video message recorded last year.
This year, many organizations are offering activities–both virtual and in-person–in pursuit of environmental protection. The Smithsonian is hosting a series of activities to celebrate Earth Day to include a number of book swaps, pop-up seed stands and a future food marketplace. Dubbed “Earth Days @ FUTURES: A Sustainable Celebration,” the event will take place on Saturday and Sunday. On April 24, the Anacostia Community Boathouse will also be hosting an Earth Day event: a clean up from 10 a.m. to noon. For people who like to spend their time outdoors, the Friends of the National Arboretum will also be hosting a volunteer day. If you are looking for something more active, there is also an Earth Day 5k taking place on Saturday at 10 a.m. in Navy Yard.
D.C. Water provides a list recommending ways families can celebrate Earth Day, and suggests such as gardening, starting a terrarium and doing arts-and-crafts with recycled or reused products.
