7 Great Ways to Celebrate Earth Day 2021

On the very first Earth Day in 1970, 22 million Americans celebrated clean air, land, and water. 51 years later, we’re celebrating Earth Day 2021 with a whole new appreciation for the outdoors and our natural resources as a result of time spent social distancing out in the fresh air.

If you want ideas for Earth Day activities that the whole family can participate in on April 22nd, consider these suggestions:

1. Earth Day Cleanup

Safely contribute to Earth Day cleanup efforts by picking up litter at one of your favorite state parks, beaches, or local fishing spots. Remember to practice social distancing, wear a mask, wear gloves, and wash your hands.

2. Plant a tree

Earth Day activities, such as planting a tree, can be beneficial for the environment for years to come. Since trees store carbon, they serve as a natural solution to climate change. Celebrate Earth Day by participating in outdoor activities that help to make a positive impact on our environment.

3. Reduce your plastic use

Make a pact to stop using plastic when it isn’t necessary. Plastic poses significant threats to aquatic resources and can take up to 450 years to decompose. Switch to reusable shopping bags, use paper straws, and use stainless steel reusable water bottles.

4. Hike or bike to a local fishing spot

Instead of driving, give up your car for the day and celebrate Earth Day 2021 by hiking or biking to a fishing spot near where you live. Use the Places to Fish and Boat Map to help you find a nearby waterway. Less gasoline use means less carbon emissions, better air quality, and another way to support the conservation of natural resources.

5. Create indoor garden planters from recycled tin cans

Save empty tin cans from canned beans or canned soups, wash them out, fill them with some topsoil and plant your favorite herbs or vegetables to start a kitchen garden. This can be a great Earth Day project that kids can get involved with too.

6. Host a clothing or fishing gear swap

Invite your friends over for a fishing tackle or clothing swap. If you have clothing or gear you don’t want or use anymore, someone else might love to have it. Help to encourage the benefits of reusing, repurposing and recycling.

7. Teach your kids about conservation

Make Earth Day for kids educational by reading a book or watching a movie at home that covers our endangered plant and animal species. Afterwards, research one or two endangered plants or animals and learn about what can be done to help prevent them from becoming extinct.

Since you have seven great ideas on how you can honor Mother Nature and celebrate Earth Day 2021, pick one or two and take action on April 22nd.