I used to happily chirp Happy Earth Day! each 22nd of April. Not to mention Happy Clean Up Australia Day! and Happy Earth Hour! and of course, Happy World Environment Day!
As I became more involved in environmentalism I frequently heard the opinion that Earth Day should be everyday, and we shouldn't just focus on one hour if the rest of the time we don't think twice about flipping all the lights on at home. Of course I'd counteract with claims of increasing awareness and encouraging behaviour change, but in fact, there is research to suggest that promoting small eco-changes doesn't ultimately lead to lifelong environmental behaviour after all. (I will certainly be reviewing this research in greater detail!)
But given my inherent desire to celebrate, well, pretty much anything, I can't let Earth Day slip by without some sort of recognition. And this year I'm taking inspiration from Earth Hour 2013 and its emphasis on taking it Beyond the Hour and encouraging you to make a commitment that will go beyond a day today by asking . . .
What aspect of green living or environmentalism can you can adopt into your lifestyle that will last, and hopefully bring a continued amount of awareness to you and those around you? Perhaps you will . . .
Me?
I had to think for awhile on this one. Not because I'm a complete eco-goddess (yet!) but because I'm about to move countries and can't imagine all the ways my life will be different by this time next year. But I think I've got it . . .
Since I'm moving to the United States, steeped in a rich history of free speech and activism, I am going to commit to become more involved in my political system as an advocate for environmental policy changes. I don't know exactly what it will look like just yet, but I'm putting my commitment here in writing, and I will definitely keep you all updated on how I become involved.
So, what are you willing to put in writing? I'd love to hear from you!
In the meantime, Happy Earth Day! Here's looking at a greener lifestyle for all of us by this time next year.
xLisa
As I became more involved in environmentalism I frequently heard the opinion that Earth Day should be everyday, and we shouldn't just focus on one hour if the rest of the time we don't think twice about flipping all the lights on at home. Of course I'd counteract with claims of increasing awareness and encouraging behaviour change, but in fact, there is research to suggest that promoting small eco-changes doesn't ultimately lead to lifelong environmental behaviour after all. (I will certainly be reviewing this research in greater detail!)
But given my inherent desire to celebrate, well, pretty much anything, I can't let Earth Day slip by without some sort of recognition. And this year I'm taking inspiration from Earth Hour 2013 and its emphasis on taking it Beyond the Hour and encouraging you to make a commitment that will go beyond a day today by asking . . .
How will you be greener by Earth Day 2014?
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| Image copyright Sacromento Scoop |
What aspect of green living or environmentalism can you can adopt into your lifestyle that will last, and hopefully bring a continued amount of awareness to you and those around you? Perhaps you will . . .
- Purchase only sustainable fashion (ethical, eco, vintage and swaps)
- Commit to Meatless Mondays or Weekday Vegetarianism
- Change to renewable energy in your home
- Switch your superfund or retirement savings to an ethical investment firm (Divest!)
- Increase the amount you travel by public transport (or foot or bicycle) and decrease the amount you drive
- Attend every eco-event in your city during the year
Me?
I had to think for awhile on this one. Not because I'm a complete eco-goddess (yet!) but because I'm about to move countries and can't imagine all the ways my life will be different by this time next year. But I think I've got it . . .
Since I'm moving to the United States, steeped in a rich history of free speech and activism, I am going to commit to become more involved in my political system as an advocate for environmental policy changes. I don't know exactly what it will look like just yet, but I'm putting my commitment here in writing, and I will definitely keep you all updated on how I become involved.
So, what are you willing to put in writing? I'd love to hear from you!
In the meantime, Happy Earth Day! Here's looking at a greener lifestyle for all of us by this time next year.
xLisa
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