During the first half of the year, there are several days set aside to promote awareness and action and celebrate the environment, in general, and water in particular (World Water Day, Earth Day, World Environment Day). While they might have started with a specific purpose and scope, they now share much in common – embracing a global focus, turning awareness into action and understanding the interconnectedness of human activities.

All actions are important to take (e.g., saving water versus recycling) and they often share common benefits.   As mentioned in a previous post, organizations are not always consistent in capturing all the risks and benefits.  For example, recycling does not just address a waste issue, it also benefits GHG emissions.  Similarly, reducing water consumption can result in GHG emission reductions.  These interrelationships are reflected in how both world water day and world environment day have similar climate change themes.   The interconnection has become more apparent with COVID-19.  It started as a health issue, is now an economic issue and may be linked to climate change and declines in biodiversity.

While many of us will observe these environmental anniversaries sheltered in place, there are still opportunities to make a difference by taking actions at home. No matter what action you take, make it count by:

  • Don’t do it alone – As others have written, many of today’s issues are big and complex and will take everyone working together to solve. All members of society benefit when individuals take positive actions. With the current pause, it is more important than ever to think about how small actions add up to big results.
  • Don’t make it a one-time activity. Find ways to make it fun and simple so the change will continue even after restrictions are lifted.

Here in Wisconsin we are uplifted at the sight of spring emerging from winter’s cover. The chance to get outside again in a safe manner gives everyone a little room to breathe. It’s a good way to be reminded of nature and the origins of these environmental anniversaries. Trees, sun, spring plants, rivers opening, and the coming warm weather are all positives. Better Days are ahead. Hopefully, you can take an action and enjoy nature no matter if it falls on April 22 or a future date.

Posted in Sustainability