PROVIDENCE - On this 45th anniversary of Earth Day, the Department of Environmental Management is encouraging Rhode Islanders to mark the occasion by joining a local clean up, taking easy steps to improve the environment, or simply getting outdoors and enjoying nature in state parks and management areas.
"Earth Day is a great time to roll up your sleeves and get involved in a community cleanup project," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "Throughout the week, volunteers in communities from Woonsocket to Westerly will be helping to beautify local neighborhoods and Rhode Island's scenic and recreation areas. Getting involved in these Earth Day projects is also a great way for people to practice environmental stewardship."
Since its start in 1970, Earth Day has served as a yearly catalyst for ongoing environmental education, action and change. Activities surrounding Earth Day rekindle personal commitment and broaden the base of public involvement through active participation in a wide variety of events. "Earth Day reminds us to take care of the lands and the waters that sustain us," Director Coit added. "That responsibility requires action every day of the year."
Getting outdoors is also a great way to celebrate Earth Day. Rhode Island is fortunate to have an abundance of easily accessible parks, beaches, management areas and bike paths where families can picnic, walk, bike, fish, or just enjoy the natural beauty. Getting out in nature is good for body and soul. Rhode Island has 14 state beaches, seven major state parks, 40,000 acres of state rural forestland, and over 400 miles of shoreline providing a diverse amount of conservation land and access points.
The Department is also encouraging Rhode Islanders to "Take 3." Take 3 is a call to action that encourages citizens to raise their environmental consciousness by committing to take three easy steps to improve the environment. Take 3 suggests dozens of ways to save energy, conserve water, reduce waste and respect nature. Take 3 suggestions are available at www.dem.ri.gov/earthdayx3.pdf.
"Earth Day reminds us to take care of the lands and waters that sustain us," added Director Coit. "That responsibility requires action every day of the year."
For additional information on Earth Day, visit http://www2.epa.gov/earthday.