Five ways to participate in Earth Day festivities

Written by Gracie Williams, Photos by Robin Maaya

Savannah’s annual Earth Day Festival took place Saturday, April 20 at its new location in Daffin Park. Many people gathered with a single appreciation in mind: Mother Earth. Despite the festival, today is officially Earth Day. So, if you weren’t able to participate in Saturday’s festivities, here are 5 ways you can get environmentally involved today.

Local Artisan spins wool into a string at Savannah Earth Day Festival in Daffin Park on Saturday, April 20th. [Robin Maaya for District]

1. Protect Savannah’s waterways

Make a difference in the local community by joining the clean up of Springfield Canal. Trash bags and water will be provided, but make sure to bring gloves and sunscreen. What better way to honor Mother Earth than to help clean her up? To protect Savannah’s waterways sign up for the cleanup on their website.

2. Participate in meat free Monday

While the idea of giving up meat for a day can be intimidating, there are tremendous benefits to not only your health, but to the environment as well. Visit one of Savannah’s many vegetarian and vegan friendly restaurants, or make a nice meat free meal at home. If Paul McCartney is an advocate for the movement, than it must be something worth trying. For more tips on how to participate, visit the official website.

3. Run a virtual 5-10K at your own pace

While this “virtual” race does require actual running, you can do it at your own pace and on your own schedule. It costs $20 to sign up, and 15% of the proceeds are donated to Wild Earth Allies, which is a company focused on the conservation challenges within small cities. When the race is finished, you receive an official Earth Day medal that is mailed directly to you. To learn more about the race visit their website.

Kids line up to hold Fritter the Snake from Skidaway Island State Park at Savannah Earth Day Festival in Daffin Park on Saturday, April 20th. [Robin Maaya for District]

4. Head out to Tybee Island Farmer’s Market

Every Monday from 4-7 p.m., Tybee Island holds a farmer’s market behind the Historic Tybee Lighthouse. The local produce from small farms produces less environmental waste and the quality is unmatched. So, if you missed the Forsyth Farmer’s Market this weekend, stock up on some fresh goods and show support for the local farmers.

5. Treat yourself to a day of ethical shopping

We all know that mass-produced fashion is wasteful and environmentally hazardous. Instead of going on a shopping spree at stores that support this industry, opt for one of Savannah’s many vintage stores. You can find one of a kind pieces, and also be conscious to the environment.

Turning a blind eye to the effect you have on the planet is a thing of the past; it has to be. Make a difference this Earth Day, even if it’s a small one. Every small step forward is a step in the right direction.

Learn more about Earth Day and take some fun quizzes here.