Earth Day: A Day to Reflect on our Environmental Impact

On April 22, 2015 many corporations around the globe will celebrate Earth Day. For us, Earth Day is a time to reflect on what we as an organization are doing to protect the environment. Earth Day was first recognized on April 22, 1970 by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson and inspired out of nationwide anger. From Seven Spectacular Places Saved by the Environmental Movement. 

"Four million gallons of oil from a blown offshore well were smearing California beaches. Flames leapt from the surface of Ohio’s Cuyahoga River. Bald eagles, our national symbol had been winnowed by hunting and chemical pollution to a few hundred breeding pairs in the lower 48 states."

An estimated 20 million people nationwide attended festivals showing their respect for mother earth that eventually led to the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act. Saving the planet is more complicated than it was 40 years ago. The fact is that without an environmental movement like Earth Day, the environmental impact would be far worse than what it was 45 years ago.

Although saving the planet may seem like a huge undertaking, we can all take it upon ourselves to make a positive impact on the environment. Here are some things your company can do to help.

• Carpool, work remotely or bike to work.
• Turn off computers at night- Save 40 watt-hours per day
• Have a recycling program with clearly identified recycling bins
• Print less
• Recycle old electronics
• Use less chemicals- Chemicals do real damage to waterways and aquatic life