By Amber Prinkey
Awareness days are a great way to bring attention to environmental concerns. So, we wanted to wish you a Happy International Day of Clean Air! This year’s theme is “Healthy Air, Healthy Planet” which emphasizes the health aspects of air pollution and is very relevant considering the current Covid-19 crisis.
Air quality affects us in many ways and even affects our wildlife. Birth defects, diseases, and lower reproductive rates have all been attributed to air pollution. Plants also suffer as air pollution has a negative effect on their growth.
How can we make a difference? Since emissions from our cars create air pollution we can drive less by carpooling, walking, or biking to our destination. Energy production also emits pollution so we can look for ways to reduce our energy use at home by adjusting our thermostat a degree or two, turning lights out when we leave the room, and unplugging electronics when not in use.
Other upcoming “clean planet” events this month include International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer on September 16th and National Clean-Up Day on September 18th which focuses on keeping our outdoors clean. To find a clean up near you go to https://www.nationalcleanupday.org/
Sulfur butterflies enjoy the clean air and a sweet treat outside our Nature Center.