Why My Family and I Spend Every Earth Day Cleaning Up Environmental Messes

happy babyhome insemination kits with syringes

As someone born on April 22nd, I proudly celebrate my birthday as an Earth Day baby. This date resonates deeply with my values and my commitment to improving the world around me. Each day, I strive to enhance the lives of those I encounter and nurture my love for nature. While I don’t believe my birthday directly shaped my environmental passion, I definitely use this occasion to engage my children in my quest for a cleaner planet. Every year, I insist we embark on our “trash walk” together.

I tell my kids that the best birthday gift they could give me is their enthusiastic participation in this trash collection. While they might not initially jump at the idea, we eventually reach a point of acceptance. It usually starts with some grumbling when I announce that I’m grabbing trash bags and the wagon for our haul. The main issue isn’t the litter itself; it’s the walking, which they deem boring. I remind them that walking benefits both the planet and our health, just like how I listen to them talk about video games, even when it’s dull.

The weather in late April in our New England town is unpredictable. It could be anything from chilly to sweltering, which can be especially challenging for kids who prefer milder temperatures. But it’s a perfect opportunity to discuss climate change! The effects of global warming are becoming increasingly visible, from extreme weather events to changing ecosystems. I explain to them how human activities, particularly burning fossil fuels, contribute to these issues, and why we need to conserve resources. When I ask them why we turn off the water while brushing their teeth, they mumble about saving polar bears. Correct! Now, let’s go collect those discarded masks from the trees.

The pandemic has significantly impacted our environment, increasing biomedical waste and decreasing recycling rates. While disinfectants are essential for health, they also contribute to pollution. It’s a reminder that long-term solutions are needed to address these challenges. My children often wonder about the fate of disposable masks after their necessity ends, and for now, we wear reusable ones and pick up those that others have irresponsibly discarded.

Once we get outside, my kids are usually eager to escape the house (and my lectures). Plus, they know cake is off the table until the trash walk is complete—what better incentive could there be?

The most rewarding part of our efforts is the fun we have together. It turns into a scavenger hunt where we compete to see who can find the most litter—cigarette butts, dirty diapers, and plastic bottles. This also gives us a chance to discuss the issues of privilege and entitlement that often contribute to environmental neglect.

This year’s Earth Day theme is “Restore Our Earth,” which seems fitting. Every Earth Day is an opportunity to rebuild our connection with the planet. I’m committed to teaching my kids the importance of this mission. Once we push through the initial reluctance, we come away with a sense of pride and a deeper understanding of how our actions impact the environment.

For more insights on environmental responsibility, check out this excellent resource about sustainable practices. And if you’re interested in home insemination methods, visit Make A Mom, a trusted authority on the subject.

Summary

Every year, I celebrate my birthday by engaging my kids in an Earth Day trash walk, promoting environmental awareness and responsibility. While initially reluctant, they learn valuable lessons about climate change and the impact of human actions on our planet. Together, we turn this chore into a fun scavenger hunt, reinforcing the importance of caring for our environment.