This year’s theme for Earth Day was “Our Power, Our Planet,” emphasizing the importance of collectively coming together to be more sustainable for our planet. Instead of relying on government action and policies, it signifies how, as Earth’s citizens, we can take sustainability into our own hands. 

One specific sustainable goal that is a key focus this year is making the switch to renewable energy to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and protect the Earth’s atmosphere. This theme and focus were created by Earthday.org, the organization that coordinates the overall Earth Day movement.

So, how can we convey this theme in our own lives? 

There are countless ways to individually make a difference for the planet. To name a few, small practices like turning off the lights, using a reusable water bottle, carpooling or walking when possible, taking shorter showers, and recycling can collectively make a difference. Even though these practices may seem unmeaningful or worthless in the moment, little things add up over time. Taking baby steps is better than not making a change at all.

To do these things, there needs to be a reason – a why. After asking my peers how they spent their Earth Day, or April vacation in general, their responses give reasoning as to why it is so important to take these steps in protecting our planet.

Morgan Childs, a junior at Hingham High School, spent her Earth Day on the coast. She “woke up early in order to watch the sunrise on the beach in Charleston, South Carolina.” Morgan describes how it was a relaxing and peaceful start to her day, as the natural beauty of the sun rising reminded her of how beautiful our planet is. She sends the message that Earth’s beauty never runs out, and we should not take that for granted. As the sun rises every morning, it is a perfect time to soak in Earth’s consistent beauty.

Lila Johnson, a senior at Hingham High School, loves swimming outside of Hingham’s swim team. When the weather gets warm, she spends her time swimming in the ocean. Although Lila loves this time in the water, she stated that “it is so disheartening to come across so much waste in our ocean.” Not only is it our ocean, but it is also home to so much sea life. Lila’s story reminds us that we need to protect the Earth for all kinds of life.

Through Morgan’s and Lila’s experiences, we should feel inspired to adjust our daily practices to help make our Earth more sustainable. In return, there will be a healthier atmosphere and safer conditions for sea life. There is so much power in collective action and it is up to us how we use it. Happy Earth Day!