April 22, 2012 marks the 42nd celebration of Earth Day. Originally founded in 1970 by Gaylord Nelson, a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin, this international holiday is considered to be the foundation of the modern environmental movement.
Up until the 60’s, air and water pollution were seen as signs of progress. Smog filled skies and oil laced river banks were benchmarks of industrialism and something to feel proud of. Earth Day and the social movement around it were monumental in changing these ideals. Regardless of political affiliation, career path, or geographic location Earth Day reminds us that we all live on this planet and need to preserve it as our home and the home for our descendants.
With all of the eco-friendly and “green” options available today is it much easier to be mindful of our own footprint. There are countless ways where every individual person or business can make a small change. Although it may not seem like much, each drop in the bucket eventually helps to fill the pool. Just as the degradation of the environment has occurred gradually over time until it could no longer be pushed to the way side, the reverse effects are slow and seemingly insignificant. However, the more conscious we are of how our behavior affects the earth, the easier it will be to preserve the land, air, and water for future generations. We can’t undo but we can move forward, help, and make a difference. Nature doesn’t need to be saved so much as it needs to be respected and revitalized.
There is a very fragile balance of what is too much versus not enough in the world of environmental activism, but it is vital to remember and apply knowledge and strategies as a small part of everyday life. The Earth Day Network is a great source for more information on how and why to get involved. Their claim is compelling, “The fight for a clean environment continues in a climate of increasing urgency, as the ravages of climate change become more manifest every day. We invite you to be a part of Earth Day and help write many more victories and successes into our history. Discover energy you didn’t even know you had. Feel it rumble through the grassroots under your feet and the technology at your fingertips. Channel it into building a clean, healthy, diverse world for generations to come.”
Energy efficient light bulbs, fundraisers, chemical reducing air filters, and recycling are a few easy things you and your salon can do to help! Mark your calendars for April 22 and just imagine what we can do as a community if everybody celebrates Earth Day this year!
