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The first Earth Day was announced in 1970 in response to increasing air pollution caused by leaded gasoline and unregulated industrial practices in the US. It garnered bipartisan support and led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as well as the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and other necessary conservation measures. Earth Day became a global event in 1990, which encouraged similar measures in a more far-reaching capacity.

Yet much more needs to be done. Today, the news is full of natural disasters caused by global warming. The hesitancy of the US and Europe to ban Russian oil and gas imports in 2022—even in response to Russia’s brutal and unprovoked war on Ukraine—has highlighted just how over-reliant world economies are on fossil fuels. 

All of this demonstrates how important Earth Day is in galvanizing people everywhere to take important steps in environmental conservation. This includes teaching children about earth-conscious practices and how to apply them in their daily lives. Here are some great ways for kids to become more environmentally conscious and get motivated to help save the planet: 

• Learn about global warming and climate change. Given that global warming is now a current threat rather than a future possibility, teaching children about it should be on everyone’s Earth Day priority list. Choose from a variety of related educational resources and activities to help kids develop climate literacy. There are endless options for them to take action in their daily lives, such as conserving energy and teaching others about energy conservation.
• Discover electric vehicles and alternative energy resources. 2022 offers a prime opportunity to teach kids that if more people drove electric cars that run on responsibly-sourced fuel, the US wouldn’t have to depend on other countries for gas and oil. Besides, electric vehicles and alternative energy sources make for fun tech-centered discussions and activities.    
• Participate in a community cleanup event. Community cleanups can take place in or near neighborhoods, parks, beaches, rivers, and other public spaces. They are typically organized by local nonprofits dedicated to environmental conservation. In addition to helping the environment, kids can get fresh air, a little exercise, and a chance to make new friends. Taking before-and-after pictures gives kids a sense of accomplishment and pride, and may even inspire future bedroom cleanups! Find a cleanup event near you.
• Learn about ethical and sustainable fashion. After oil, the clothing industry is the second-largest cause of global pollution, so it’s vital to teach kids about sustainable clothing. Adults can use these educational resources to explain eco-friendly fashion. Kids can watch an eco-fashion show, shop for sustainable clothing, or create new garments and accessories using fabric, textiles, and other reusable materials they already have at home. All of these make for fun and engaging group activities.
• Reduce plastic waste and pollution. Kids who have demonstrated concern for any animal will be receptive to important lessons about how plastic trash harms marine and land animals. In addition to participating in community cleanups to prevent this, youngsters can learn about problems with single-use and non-recyclable plastics
• . They can put this knowledge in action by making reusable shopping bags, creating new products out of non-recyclable plastics, or taking a field trip to a recycling plant.
• Plant trees and reduce paper product use. Planting trees is a perennial Earth Day activity favorite, and it’s always an excellent way for children to help combat air pollution as well as excessive logging and deforestation. Kids can learn about a variety of related topics, including wildlife habitat loss, soil erosion, overreliance on paper products, and how the destruction of the Amazon forest contributes to global warming.

Learn About Environmental Conservation with the Boy Scouts 

If you live in the western parts of Pennsylvania, Maryland, or West Virginia, enrolling your child in the Boy Scouts of America Laurel Highlands Council is a great way for them to learn about environmental stewardship and participate in conservation programming.

Scouting’s programs and outdoor adventures give young people the opportunity to try new things, provide service to others, build self-confidence, and develop leadership skills. These experiences not only help Scouts while they are young, but help them grow into exceptional men and women that respect their family, community, religion, country and themselves.

The Boy Scouts of America Laurel Highlands Council serves youth members and volunteer adult leaders throughout Western Pennsylvania, Western Maryland, and parts of West Virginia. We aim to beneficially involve every eligible child and their family in the fun and adventure of our programs. We provide extraordinary youth development programs that develop and strengthen the values of the Scout Oath and Law. 

So what are you waiting for? Join now!