Earth Day, on April 22, will serve again as a galvanizing force on ways to save our planet. With the theme of End Plastic Pollution, the Earth Day Network (EDN) is setting a specific focus this year on the importance of reducing the use of plastics and finding more Earth-friendly alternatives (EarthDay.org).

The nonprofit notes that of the approximately 300 million tons of plastic annually produced to make bags, bottles, packages and other commodities worldwide, only about 10 percent is successfully recycled and reused. The rest ends up in landfills or as litter, leaching dangerous chemicals into soil and water, endangering humans and wildlife alike.

EDN asks everyone to pledge to switch to sustainable alternatives, subscribe to its newsletter, spread the word via social media, educate and mobilize citizens to demand action, and donate to support the adoption of a global framework to regulate plastic pollution that will engage individuals, companies and governments worldwide.

Further, EDN is extending people’s ability to take personal responsibility by self-rating and guiding their involvement via practical toolkits. “People can create and follow a plan to reduce their plastic footprint and also share that data to help others via the Billion Acts of Green online campaign,” says Valeria Merino, vice president of Global Earth Day, adding that participants will be able to create an ongoing record and track their commitments. The initiative is also providing materials, tips on organizing cleanup events and social media tie-ins.

Help Tucson celebrate and forward progress in sustainability  efforts by participating in these local Earth Day 2018 events.  

April 5

Public Talk From Complete Streets to Thriving Communities – 7pm. An evening with Gil Peñalosa highlighting sustainable mobility as a force for health, wealth and happiness. Space is limited and those planning to attend are encouraged to reserve their free seat ahead of time at: Tinyurl.com/RialtoGilPenalosa. Rialto Theatre, 318 E Congress St,  85701.

April 8

Cyclovia Tucson – 10am-3pm. Cyclovia gives people from the greater Tucson region the chance to enjoy being outdoors, meet neighbors, friends and people from throughout the area, and get a little exercise – all for free on city streets closed to car traffic and open to walkers, joggers, cyclists, skaters and all other forms of people-powered movement. CycloviaTucson.org.

April 21

Tucson Earth Day Festival – 10am-2pm. Free fun family event includes exhibitors sharing information related to the environment using hands-on activities or demonstrations. Children’s Museum Tucson, 200 S 6th Ave, 85701. TucsonEarthDay.org.

Earth Day at Kartchner Caverns – 10am-4pm. Learn about wildlife rehabilitation and see wild animals up close with Fallen Feathers bird rescue. Come dig for fossils with Tom Olson. Special presentations, games and activities. Normal park entrance fees apply. Kartchner Caverns State Park. AZStateParks.com/Kartchner.

April 21- 22

Cave Restoration at Kartchner Caverns – Great opportunity to care for our natural resources, gain some hands-on experience in cave restoration, and make new friends. Tools and training provided by park staff. Limited spaces available. Contact Ranger Brooke Stathis, [email protected] or 520-586-4125 for more information or to sign up.