Super Eco

Photo credit: lmapix, flickr

April 22nd is Earth Day, which began as a way to get those in power to pay attention to crucial environmental issues of the day, including industrial and air pollution. Earth Day has since morphed into a worldwide celebration of eco-activism of all stripes. And while we might not all always agree on what constitutes activism, one thing is clear: to do nothing is no longer an option.

And what will you do that day? I have half a mind to dig out the old torches and head up to the hillside for some fireside chanting and dancing (Fie on neighborhood covenants!). Or maybe I'll read some Wendell Berry or Wordsworth. Or go on a nature walk with my kids and collect pine cones and pretty rocks.

Whatever happens, I want it to be meaningful and intentional, not haphazard and rushed. As such we're going to plan for it as a family.

Here's what we're doing:

1. Earth Day count down  - We have a big white board in the kitchen we're tracking the days until Earth Day... like an advent calendar but without the chocolates and hidden Santas.

2. Wishes for the Earth - My daughters and I are writing wishes for the Earth and putting them in a glass jar. You needed another way to reuse those glass jars anyway, didn't you?

3. Talk it up, put it down - We're spending less in April as part of our ongoing exercise in decreasing all unnecessary consumerism. Talking Earth Day puts the kibosh on most thoughtless purchases.

4. Join Flickr's Earth Mosaic - And enjoy the beautiful photos taken in preparation for this year's celebration.

Is it right to allot only one day to these activities? Of course not (on this, Grist has a point). But it doesn't hurt, especially when one is raising young children to take a day out to appreciate all that we've been given.