Earth Day 2023 in the PA Wilds: Taking care of the places we love

Photo: Clinton County CleanScapes

We hope you honor the spirit of Earth Day throughout the year, but April 22 can be an especially meaningful day to take care of the places we love in the Pennsylvania Wilds.

On April 22, 1970, the United States of America celebrated its first Earth Day, the birth of the modern environmental movement. One year later, the Pennsylvania Legislature solidified the movement and ratified the Environmental Rights Amendment, guaranteeing clean air, pure water, and the preservation of natural and scenic values for its citizens.

In that legislative language, it’s important to note that it uses the statement “for generations to come.” Now 52 years after the ratification, multiple generations have benefited from the inheritance of a healthier environment… although we still have a long way to go.

Despite the fact that pollutants and climate change are still an issue, our policies have certainly changed since that first Earth Day. The movement was the sign of a new dawn for statewide and national commitments to the environment. Since then, pollution standards mean that there have been major improvements in water and air quality. Mines and toxic waste sites are being remediated. There are stiffer fines for polluters. The environment is less likely to be indiscriminately exploited.

Photo: Allegheny Outfitters and volunteers clean up the Allegheny River.

While these changes might have taken place because of reformed laws, the spirit of Earth Day and April 22 is not truly about compulsory laws. Earth Day celebrates our natural world in a way that inspires us – as opposed to forcing us – to respect and honor it. The day is about encouraging people to use their conscience when making choices that affect the environment. Earth Day also galvanizes us to work together and raise our collective voices to make change.

You can reaffirm your commitment to the planet and the places that bring us so much beauty, inspiration and sustenance. This Earth Day, participate in an activity that nurtures nature. Take small steps to respect and heal our environment: our air, water, soil and wildlife.

Just like the ratification of the past, together we can uphold the spirit of Earth Day and guarantee a healthier planet for generations to come.

Ideas for Celebrating Earth Day from anywhere

Participate in a group litter cleanup, organize your own cleanup efforts, or simply bring a trash bag on your next walk and pick up as much litter as you personally can.
Learn the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace and practice those principles on your next outdoor adventure.
Plant a native garden, tree or shrub on your property.
Start a compost pile.
Gather up your recyclables and take them to a recycling center or drop-off point.
Write letters to your elected officials, encouraging them to vote for legislation that would benefit the environment.
Lessen your impact by using less electricity, water and other resources.
Recycle your old clothes by donating them, and consider purchasing secondhand when possible because the fashion industry has a considerable impact on the environment.
Donate to reputable environmental causes or join an advocacy group.
Buy a hunting or fishing license. (Those proceeds benefit wildlife management and environmentally friendly practices in our state.)
Volunteer with an organization or project that benefits our public lands.
Educate yourself and others about the history of Earth Day and how to make smarter choices for our planet.
Enjoy nature and take a moment to appreciate this beautiful world.