Earth, Our Biggest Asset

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What started as a grassroots demonstration in 1970 has blossomed into an annual celebration we all know — Earth Day. With 193 countries participating, this yearly celebration includes local and international events that support environmental protection and awareness. 

“Invest In Our Planet” is the theme for Earth Day 2023. The question becomes, how can we invest on a regional basis? And does it really matter? The short answer — Yes!

 

OUR  LOCAL IMPACT

Here’s a sobering statistic. The average American produces over 4 ½ pounds of trash every day, with less than 1 ½ pounds getting recycled. That’s three times more than the global average. When we discard chemicals, single-use plastics, e-waste, and harmful building materials, our homes and daily lives contribute to the planet’s mounting seen and unseen (ill) health. Simply stated, recycling is not enough. In order for our throw-away society to experience real change, we must shift our daily approach to this trashy topic.

 

 

PRESERVING AND IMPROVING

On a regional level, organizations, governmental agencies, and dedicated locals tirelessly work to preserve and enhance our beautiful Lake Tahoe. With a projected 15 million visitors annually, minimizing environmental impact is a tall order. Just ask Colin West of Clean Up The Lake. Utilizing teams of volunteer scuba divers, this local non-profit made waves by removing underwater trash from Lake Tahoe — over 25,000 pounds! Cornerstone foundations such as Keep Tahoe Blue and Tahoe Fund support environmental projects through advocacy, education, and philanthropy. Locally coordinated beach cleanup days and nature restoration projects, including The Tahoe Rim Trail, help keep our fragile ecosystem top of mind. 

 

BE PART OF THE SOLUTION, NOT THE POLLUTION

Small changes can grow into new lifestyle habits that nurture sustainability. Educate yourself (and your family) to reduce your carbon footprint. Here are some fresh ideas:

 

EVALUATE

  • Look around your home for ways to eliminate plastic packaging in laundry, yard, cleaning, food, and pet products. 
  • Commit to re-using, re-purposing, repairing, and recycling everyday items. 
  • Decide to live with less stuff at your home and office. Donate the remaining.
  • Before clicking checkout for another online order, ask yourself, ‘do I really need this?’ 

 

SHIFT

  • Shop with the environment in mind. Eliminate plastic produce and grocery bags. 
  • Choose plant-based cleaners and bio-degradable products.
  • Educate the next generation about earth-wise stewardship.
  • Seek out eco-friendly building materials and products.
  • Reduce the size of your household trash cans.

 

ENGAGE

  • Commit to leave no trace when enjoying Lake Tahoe outdoor adventures. 
  • Volunteer with local organizations to spread awareness.
  • Support businesses that use eco-friendly products and reduce waste. 
  • Compost. 

 

START HERE

 

South Tahoe Earth Day Festival

 

 

 

Tahoe Truckee Earth Day Festival 

 

 

Midtown Reno Earth Day Cleanup 

 

IT ALL ADDS UP

So, wherever you may call home, we hope you’ll join us to invest in our planet, one decision at a time. Together, let’s commit to making Earth Day not just one day but a daily habit (lifestyle) to benefit future generations.