The 5oth Anniversary takes place indoors this year.
Today, Wednesday 22nd, 2020 marks the the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day. And while, most of us would usually be taking part by doing our best to conserve energy, pick up trash, and enjoy the beauty of nature that surrounds us, we’re all doing our part simply by staying inside. By “sheltering in place”, as some call it, nature is returning to what were once highly populated places. Some lions were observed basking in the sun on the road of a National Park in South Africa, mountain goats were seen roaming the streets of LLandudno in Wales, and you’ve probably seen videos of penguins waddling their way through empty aquariums. And while many Earth Day events are cancelled around the world, there are some ways you can partake from your living room.
We’re definitely living in extraordinary times, and that’s why Earth Day is going digital this year. Anyone with internet access and a computer can visit the the official Earth Day WEBSITE and join in “flooding the world with hope, optimism and action.” Tune in to live stream events all day long, with the events spreading over 3 days, you can also view Thursday and Friday as well. Visiting the Earth Day website will have you entertained all day long. And there are many other organizations joining in by offering virtual tours, and more.
The American Museum of Natural History
While museums around the world are closed, you can still keep in contact with the Museum of Natural History in New York. They’ve created a family-friendly, all-day online festival to honor the planet. Participate in workshops and learn how to plant a garden at home or learn about the physics of glaciers. “One event allows you to travel the world giving you the chance to check out natural wonders like the Amazon Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.
National Park Service
The National Park Service gives you the opportunity to tour parks virtually by watching webcams of local wildlife and participating in park activities from home. All Earth Day long, national parks around the country are hosting live streams on Facebook and Instagram, including the sunrise from Bryce Canyon National Park, an art workshop from San Antonio Missions National Historic Park, a children’s book reading from Gettysburg National Military Park and a “Ranger Chat” from Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site.
World Wildlife Fund and UNICEF
The World Wildlife Fund and UNICEF are hosting a virtual concert on Earth Day with over 40 artists from six countries, all participating from home.
San Diego Zoo
Zoos and aquariums around the U.S. are hosting virtual Earth Day events to get people involved with animals. The San Diego Zoo, for example, is hosting events all day, including a live stream called “Saving Species,” featuring rhino experts who are expected to talk about species conservation. The zoo is also encouraging people to become citizen scientists, participate in a nature scavenger hunt, research and record using its animal livestreams and hang artwork in windows to share with the community.
Last modified: May 12, 2020
