190. Earth Day Every Day: The Evolution of a Movement with Emily Walker of EarthDay.org

Apr 19, 2024

46:40

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We all know about Earth Day, but when and how did it begin, and how has it evolved over it's 54 year history? In this special Earth Day episode, we are interviewing Emily Walker who is the education coordinator at the nonprofit that started it all: EarthDay.org. We are diving into the significance of Earth Day, its 1970 origin, and its evolution over the years towards addressing contemporary environmental issues. Each year they chose a new focus, and the theme for this year's Earth Day is 'Planet vs. Plastics,' emphasizes the urgent need to decrease plastic production and usage. Emily explores how EarthDay.org's education drives aim to incorporate climate education into school systems worldwide, the challenges and successes of implementing such programs, and the organization's efforts to influence environmental policies at various levels. In this conversation, we talk about the importance of individual action, community involvement, and the need for systemic change to address environmental issues. Emily also talks about the hope she sees in the younger generation's enthusiasm for finding solutions to the environmental issues we are now facing.

🌿 This episode is sponsored by Neptune’s Harvest Organic Fertilizer. Use code GOODDIRT at checkout for 5% off your order for products from the ocean to set your plants in motion 🌊

Topics Discussed

· Celebrating Earth Day: Origins and Impact

· The Evolution of Environmental Awareness

· From Litterbugs to Environmental Advocates

· Earth Day's Mission: Combatting Plastic Pollution

· Inside EarthDay.org: Its Missions Today

· Emily Walker's Journey from Teacher to EarthDay.org Education Coordinator

· The Expanding Role of Earth Day in Education and Policy

· Current Initiatives and Future Plans for Earth Day

· The Challenge of Eliminating Plastics

· Reflecting on Past Environmental Efforts and the Path Forward

· The Problem with Plastic Packaging