Earth to Man: SOS Wednesday is Earth Day

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY-One billion people. 

22,000 partners in 192 countries. 

The world's largest, non-secular celebration. 

Get ready for Earth Day 2015, the 45th anniversary of this urgent occasion. (Earth Day is Wednesday, April 22.) 

As the drumbeat of climate change gets louder and more dire, the Earth Day Network is mobilizing global leaders, businesses and citizens around the world to make meaningful commitments towards change. 

Earth Day Network believes that this Earth Day 2015 could be the most exciting year in environmental history. The hope is that there will be greater awareness of the link between economic growth and sustainability; that world leaders finally pass a binding climate change treaty; and that fossil fossil fuels will give way to renewable energy solutions. 

That's why this year's theme is "It's Our Turn to Lead," with a goal of promoting environmental awareness, developing sustainable initiatives and galvanizing every human to pledge Acts of Green. 

If you care about our planet but don't know where to start, here are some ideas to get you thinking, and to disseminate throughout your company in honor of Earth Day: 

Reduce Energy Consumption. Almost half of the greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. come from the energy we use to power our homes and our cars. Take the pledge to reduce your energy consumption today. 

Eat Less Meat. The meat industry generates nearly one-fifth of the man-made greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Help make a difference by limiting your meat consumption. Take the pledge today! 

Support Shaheen-Portman Bill. Did you know the U.S. wastes more than 60% of the energy it produces annually? Tell the Senate to invest in energy efficiency and support the Shaheen-Portman bill. 

Start Composting. More than a billion pounds of food are thrown away every year. Help make a difference by turning your food waste into soil. Start composting today. 

Adjust Your Water Heater. Did you know the average water heater wastes energy heating water to temperatures that are too hot for human use? Adjust your thermostat today.

Stop Using Disposable Plastic. Help end our obsession with plastic and protect the environment. Take the pledge to stop using disposable plastic. 

Buy local produce. Eat healthier and help reduce your carbon footprint by buying local produce. Take the pledge and we'll show you how to find local produce near you. 

Reduce Your Footprint. Take the Ecological Footprint Quiz and learn how you can reduce your impact on the planet. 

Slaying Vampire Energy. Every year billions of kilowatt hours of electricity in homes are wasted by appliances that aren't on but are still consuming energy. Help end this costly and wasteful problem by taking action. 

End Junk Mail. Junk mail is not only a major inconvenience, it also has an extremely negative impact on the environment. Take action to help reduce the amount of junk mail you receive. 

Recycle Your E-Waste. Every year, thousands of old electronic devices are thrown into landfills, polluting the environment, when they can be recycled. Pledge to recycle your e-waste. 

Go Solar. Want to reduce your energy costs and help the environment? Retrofitting your home or business with solar panels allows you to do both. 

Support New Fuel Standards. Automobiles are one of the biggest sources of carbon dioxide emissions in the world. Lend your voice to support the new proposed fuel and vehicle standards.

Support Obama's Climate Plan. President Obama has announced his Climate Action Plan, which includes steps to regulate carbon emissions from power plants. Let the White House know you support his actions to fight climate change. 

Protect Our Clean Air. Power plants generate 40% of all carbon emissions in the U.S. Tell the EPA to utilize Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act and start regulating existing power plants today. 

Restore the Canopy. Trees play a critical role in helping to alleviate poverty and improving the quality of life of impoverished communities. Help us plant 10 million trees around the world. 

The greatest challenge of mankind is upon us. For Mother Earth's birthday this year, let's engage our company leaders, colleagues, friends and family in meeting that challenge with everything we've got.

 

(Ryan Scott is the Founder and CEO of Causecast. This Earthday reminder was posted first at HuffingtonPost.com Follow Ryan Scott on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ryan_scott ) 

-cw

 

 

CityWatch

Vol 13 Issue 33

Pub: Apr 21, 2015