There is so much beauty to this planet that we call home and Earth Day is an entire day dedicated to appreciating that beauty. 

Every year Earth Day falls on April 22. We are in unusual circumstances this year as we have to spend Earth Day in quarantine. 

Earth Day is an annual event celebrated around the world to demonstrate support for environmental protection. 

It was first celebrated in 1970 across 2,000 colleges and universities and about 10,000 elementary schools and hundreds of communities across the U.S. The first celebration resulted in landmark legislation including the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act and the Endangered Species Act. 

And just because we are not able to get out and advocate for environmental reform like the holiday usually calls for, the Ecology Action Center is still finding ways to celebrate. 

The center has pivoted most of its efforts to virtual means to continue honoring the actions of those in the Bloomington-Normal community and all over the world over the past 50 years towards improving the environment and public health for generations. 

They center will host multiple virtual events throughout the day on Earth Day including a panel discussion about the McLean County State of the Environment and another panel about the importance of renewable energy. 

They will also host a discussion group about the launch of the book “Green Reads” and a Facebook live viewing of Dr. Suess’ environmental classic, The Lorax. 

There are many other ways that you can observe Earth Day while still maintaining social distancing. 

You can donate to an organization that focuses on environmental action. You can post a picture of your favorite places on Earth. You can walk around your neighborhood and clean up trash. 

Your environmental efforts don’t have to be exclusive to this day because every day is Earth Day.