Five ways to celebrate World Environment Day!

World Environment Day is a worldwide celebration led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) that encourages awareness and action for protecting our environment. There are many great ways that you can participate in this holiday. 

1. Do an activity that helps the environment around you.

There are many small things we can do for the environment. Pick up litter in a public area. Walk, bike, or take public transportation instead of driving. Plan a few meatless meals. Visit a farmers market and buy local products instead of imported ones.

2. Learn more about the environment and initiatives around you 

There is a lot happening worldwide to protect the environment, but there is also a lot happening right here in Virginia. Here are Environment Virginia’s top issues and priorities for 2023. Whether it be fighting to keep Virginia in RGGI or working to eliminate the most harmful types of single use plastic, there is so much to be done and room for everyone to make a difference. 

3. Get outside and experience the nature around you!

Connecting with nature can improve your wellbeing. It can reduce negative emotions, it provokes happiness, and it is great for your health. Being in nature connects us to the larger world around us. Immersing yourself in nature is a great way to take your mind off of the stresses of the day and instead focus on the bird sounds, pretty flowers, or the breeze. It also gives a reminder of why it is so important to protect the environment. From Shenandoah National Park to the Chesapeake Bay, Virginians are lucky to have so many opportunities to escape into nature.

4. Share what you learned! 

You can help spread awareness by telling others what you learned or experienced. Just as it is important to be aware of what is happening with the environment- it is also important to tell others and help get more people involved. Post about an ongoing issue that needs support and share why that issue matters to you. 

5. Take Action

Although the Virginia General Assembly is only in session two months a year, it is just as important to engage with our decision makers year round. Tell our legislators about the issues that matter most by writing a letter, signing a petition, emailing them personally, and more. 

If you look around you will see that sea levels are rising, storms are growing more intense, and many animals- such as the humpback whale- are coming close to extinction. It takes people to make change- and by growing support for important environmental causes we can begin to make positive changes. 

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you spend time gardening, camping in Shenandoah National Park, hiking the Appalachian Trail, swimming in the Chesapeake Bay, or simply spending time in nature we can all appreciate the environment around us. Virginia is incredible and we need to work to preserve it.