Celebrate Earth Day’s 50th Anniversary

Are you looking for ways to celebrate Earth Day this year? As we find ourselves sheltering in place, the typical activities involving festivals and large-scale volunteer projects are no longer an option. That doesn’t mean we can’t and shouldn’t honor Earth Day’s big 5-Oh! Check out one of these options for celebrating virtually, safely outdoors, or from the comfort of your home. 

Virtual

KQED lists their top picks for things to do, learn, and see on the big day with live virtual events provided by some of our favorite learning places, including CalAcademy, NASA, and the Tech Museum. Specifically for Middle and High School students is a free webinar with two National Geographic explorers titled  “Meet the Explorers! By the Tech for Global Good.”  Scheduled for this Thursday at 3pm, sign up in advance for the link to join. 

Outdoors

Take a hike and bring your camera! Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District has kept their parks open for hiking and is a great way to get in touch with nature. While there, take some pictures and submit to their annual photo contest, which is accepting entries from now until May 31 for students in grades 6-12. Make sure to check their website for current information, park locations, and contest details. Share your photos with #sccldteens so we can see them too, and don't forget to thank a ranger when you see one, from 6 feet away of course!

At Home

Enjoy a meatless meal and download a book suitable for celebrating earth day. Our list below includes cookbooks, biographies, and a selection of environmental nonfiction and fiction for young adults. Whatever you decide to do, have fun and feel free to share with us in the comments below!

Vegan Bowl Attack!

Umami Bomb

Our House Is on Fire

How to Give up Plastic 

Sustainable Happiness

Where Have All the Bees Gone? 

Cast Away 

Last Chance to See  

Skink--no Surrender 

The Confusion of Laurel Graham 

Spill Zone