As the climate crisis deepens, every day on Earth becomes more meaningful… Earth Day celebrations first began in 1970 when millions of Americans took to the streets to protest pollution. Since then, the celebration has grown year by year to become one of the most important environmental celebrations in the world (www.un.org).
In the Philippines, April 22 of every year has been declared as the Philippines’ Earth Day under Presidential Proclamation 1481, signed on April 10, 2008, by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to raise the level of awareness on environmental degradation and destruction in the country that threatens the very quality of life of many Filipinos.
That is why it is more important than ever that Earth Day is seen as a rallying cry for real action on the climate crisis.
This year’s theme is “Invest in our Planet.”
Investing in the planet means conserving water and energy, reducing waste, planting trees, using public transport, consuming locally grown food, and adopting sustainable agriculture. Furthermore, it is a reminder that all sectors must take action against the climate crisis and invest in a green economy that makes the world a better place for future generations.
From parties, parades and protests to cleanups, rallies, and teach-ins, there are endless number of ways to celebrate Earth Day. For us in COWD, we opted to donate Plastic Bottle Recycling Bins to our partner barangays, namely, barangays 24 and 27 as a way of raising awareness on the management of plastic waste. Alongside this objective, is to foster cooperation with the barangays on addressing their respective water concerns and their assistance as well in disseminating announcements and reporting of any leakages or illegal connections.
With this, let us remind ourselves and everyone that we all must exercise responsibility and do our part to make this planet a better, cleaner, and more sustainable place to live. Not just every Earth Day but every day is a chance to nurture nature.
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