This Monday, April 22, marks the 54th annual Earth Day. As finals near, what better way to destress than sharing a day outside with all of the meaningful aspects we can sometimes take for granted on planet Earth?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Earth Day first came to fruition when environmental activist and Wisconsin Sen. Gaylord Nelson organized a grassroots protest that over 20 million Americans participated in. This led to former President Richard Nixon creating the EPA, which passed several groundbreaking laws to benefit the environment.
Since then, Earth Day has been a widely recognized holiday to reinvigorate one’s passion for the environment around them. It’s a perfect day, especially here on campus, to reflect on nature’s benefits and stop to take a look around. Not only is Earth Day a way to celebrate, but it’s a passage to think about how we can learn to recognize our responsibility in preserving our environment.
Celebrate Earth Day 2024 by participating and respecting the natural world. Here are some ideas to encourage you this year:
Earth Day Celebration at 21st Mortgage Plaza
On Monday, April 22, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at 21st Mortgage Plaza located outside the Student Union, the Center for Student Engagement will host its annual Earth Day Celebration.
There will be plenty of activities, including a build-your-own terrarium, along with food, drinks and no lack of fun.
Visit UT Gardens
Many don’t know that UT is home to one of the state’s three State Botanical Gardens of Tennessee. Taking a stroll through these beautiful gardens is one of the many leisure activities to participate in not only for Earth Day but year-round.
UT Gardens is located just off Neyland Drive behind the UT Veterinary Medical School.
Take a trip to Ijams Nature Center
Located just seven minutes from campus, Ijams Nature Center is one of the premier nature parks in Knox County.
Featuring over 12 miles of walking trails, biking and kayaking areas, Ijams has something for everybody and is a perfect destination to celebrate Earth Day with its accessibility and rewarding views.
Visit the Free Store
The Free Store is UT’s sustainable thrifting initiative that gives out gently used items for no cost.
The store is located at 915 22nd St. and is open from 3-6 p.m. this Monday, April 22, but has other hours of operation during the week you can find on their website. In fact, they will be attending the Earth Day Celebration at 21st Mortgage Plaza previously mentioned.
The Free Store serves the UT community by providing basic material needs as well as helping to prevent excess landfill waste.
Clean up on campus
Whether it’s recycling your Celcius can after an all-nighter in Hodges or picking up a bottle of Coors Light in the fort, these small acts can do wonders for our environment.
Not only does this directly impact our environment, but it also raises awareness about the importance of keeping our surroundings clean and preserving nature. College campuses can tend to be subject to litter, so make sure to properly dispose of waste and recycle whenever possible.
