Earth Day

On of the biggest inspirations in my work is our natural environment. From the time I was young, I remember being fascinated by the beauty of our world. From the smallest details of a tiny bug crawling over the amazing surface of an area of moss, to the awe inspiring sites like the rocky coast of Maine, or the otherworldly site of Bryce Canyon. But as we all know, the world is changing. We can feel it in small ways, and we see it in bigger ways too.

Today is a day to think about our own role in the world balance. What can we do to make things a bit better? Like all changes, it requires us to look at our smallest actions and think about changes. Small steps like recycling, or consolidating trips can make a difference. Supporting the work of larger organizations who are working to make our planet a more viable place for the long term is another.

I have been a Bzzagent for a while now. It means I get to find out about different products or services, and try them out and let other people know about them. A few weeks ago I had the chance to join a campaign for Earth Share. Earth Share is a coalition of environmental groups. They raises funds and awareness through workplace giving programs. They have very low overhead, and hold all their member organizations to high standards for managing overhead costs, and maintaining ethical standards. They include organizations such as The Audobon Society, Rails-to-Trails, The Nature Conservancy, The Ocean Conservancy, World Wildlife Fund, Union of Concerned Scientists, and on and on. There are 400 member organizations. A donation to Earth Share can be distibuted among the member organizations, or targeted to a specific organization. You can think of it like a mutual fund of giving. You are making an investment in the enviroment. What better place to put your money?

There are lots of simple yet effective ways to support the environment and Earth Share. Here are a few ways you can help:
Subscribe to their free e-newsletter – it's an easy way to connect with the global environmental community.
Start a workplace giving program where your fellow employees can automatically contribute to Earth Share via regular, pre-tax payroll contributions
Volunteer with one of Earth Share's member organizations
Make an online donation to support either all of Earth Share's organizations or specific ones
Find environmentally-friendly lifestyle tips that will protect our planet and save you money
Purchase green products and services via the Earth Share site, with 10% of proceeds supporting Earth Share
Recycle/reuse various products, including cell phones, cars and printer cartridges
Celebrate Earth Day! See Earth Share's calendar of upcoming events and activities
To learn more about Earth Share and the various ways you can support the cause, visit EarthShare.org.

Off my soapbox. Get out and enjoy the earth today. Breathe in a little inspiration.