Established in 1970, Earth Day is a global event celebrated annually on April 22 to bring awareness to environmental protection and to acknowledge the impact that our routines and actions have on the world around us. People typically participate in Earth Day through social events, community cleanups, roundtable discussions, and learning activities that inspire civic action. But what can Western New Yorkers do this year to make a difference from home while still practicing social distancing?

In celebration of the 50th anniversary, the official Earth Day 2020 website announced that it is going digital with its “24 hours of action” campaign. Throughout the day next Wednesday, information on how to take action will be posted every hour on its website and social media. Through global conversations, performances, video teach-ins, and more, they are encouraging people to speak up and show support online, share what you’re doing to participate, and express what compels you to join this movement with the hashtag #EarthDay2020.

As a reminder, twice per year ASI administers Global Warming Art Project grants, which provide funding to local artists in Western New York creating work that relates to the dangers of global warming and climate change and inspires change within the community. The next application deadline is May 1. If you find inspiration in Earth Day activities and want funding to take your project to the next level, please consider submitting an application!

Below are some resources of things you can do to participate:

What are you doing to celebrate Earth Day while you’re stuck at home? Let us know at [email protected]!