By Amanda Pankau
The theme of Earth Day 2022 is “Invest in Our Planet.” The theme inspires us to direct our attention to creating a 21st century that heals our planet, protects all species, and provides opportunities for everyone.
How can we act individually and collectively to “invest in our planet?” Let’s explore five ways to make both big and small investments in the earth, our communities, and each other this Earth Day (and every day)!
#5 INVEST IN CLEAN ENERGY
Investing in clean energy is a commitment to fight against climate change and for a liveable planet for future generations. Thanks to the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) there are opportunities for almost all Illinois ratepayers to take advantage of the cost saving and environmental benefits of clean energy!
CEJA boosts funding for two programs that make solar more affordable and accessible for all, Community Solar and Illinois Solar for All (ILFSFA). Community Solar allows participants to benefit from solar energy without installing panels on their own properties by subscribing to an off-site community solar project. Community solar is available for all Ameren and ComEd customers, and you may have received a mailer from one of the many companies signing up subscribers (Citizens Utility Board analyzes six different community solar offers). The ILSFA “low-income community solar” program is available to income-eligible participants and you can find a project here.
CEJA also establishes goals for utilities to reduce energy waste, which translates to less fossil fuel energy and increased cost savings for ratepayers and job creation. You can learn more about the energy efficiency programs offered by both Ameren and ComEd here and here. The programs include rebates on smart thermostats and appliances, energy assessments, weatherization improvements for income eligible homeowners, and more.
#4 INVEST IN LOCAL FARMERS AND FOOD SYSTEMS
Regenerative farmers use practices like cover crops, crop diversification and rotation, and alternative methods of weed and pest control. Through these methods and more, they sequester more carbon, protect water quality, and improve wildlife and pollinator habitat—all while harvesting better profits and often better yields. You can support regenerative farmers by investing in your local food system. Consider shopping at your local Farmers’ Market or signing up for Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) with a local regenerative farm. Illinois has sought to increase access to fresh, local produce by allowing Illinois LINK program participants to redeem their SNAP cards at many Illinois Farmers’ Markets.
Not sure where to find a Farmers’ Market or CSA in your area, contact these organizations for more information: Illinois Buy Fresh Buy Local, Illinois Market Maker, The Land Connection, Food Works, and Illinois Stewardship Alliance.
#3 INVEST IN YOUR COMMUNITY ON EARTH DAY AND EVERY DAY
Earth Day is a time when people and communities find a way to celebrate planet Earth, work together to make it a cleaner and greener place, and build power for a more equitable and livable future. People across Illinois are celebrating Earth Day in a variety of creative ways, and we’ve rounded up some of the fun and unique ways that people are celebrating.
Carbondale, April 22, All Species Puppet Parade
Decatur, April 23, Festival of Spring
East St. Louis, April 23, Earth Day Potluck
Geneva, April 23, Earth Day at Peck Farm Park
Mattoon, April 23, Earth Day Celebration
Naperville, Earth Week
Urbana, April 23, Earth Day for Everyone
“Fight for Our Future” Earth Day rallies are happening across the US. Check out their map for an event near you.
You know the saying “Earth Day Everyday.” Don’t let the April 22nd deadline slow you down from planning a tree planting, creek cleanup, or similar event in your community on any day of the year!
#2 INVEST IN WATER AND WILDLIFE IN YOUR BACKYARD
Illinois communities and wildlife face threats from habitat destruction, climate change, and pesticide use. But actions you can take in your homes and backyards can make a difference. As the Illinois state affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), we are a proud partner of “Garden for Wildlife,” a movement to encourage people to create habitat and incorporate sustainable practices at home and in their communities. Learn more at www.gardenforwildlife.com. And it is the perfect time of year to find a native plant sale in your community! The Illinois Native Plant Society maintains a list of native plants sales by region that you can find here.
The substances we use and dispose of in and around our homes can impact local water supplies and wildlife populations. It is important to dispose of medicines, batteries, hazardous chemicals, and paints properly. Local health departments and municipalities can be a good source of information for local disposal and recycling options for these types of substances.
#1 INVEST IN A LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATION
Actions to increase our individual investments in the planet are important, but we should also recognize the importance and need for systemic change that is achieved through reforms to law and policy. We must build power together so that we can influence and create powerful economic and legal incentives for EVERYONE, including powerful corporations, to protect the planet.
Prairie Rivers Network and other organizations, big and small, are leveraging collective action and public policy to influence real change. Become a member today and help us continue our work to protect water, heal land, and inspire change.
