HomeMy WebLinkAboutEarth Day
Contact: Jennifer Bennerotte, Communications & Marketing Director
Phone 952-833-9520 • Fax 952-826-0389 • Web www.CityofEdina.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Edina to celebrate Earth Day April 22
Edina, Minn., April 7, 2011 – Joining cities around the world to demonstrate a commitment to
environmental protection and sustainability, the Edina City Council in collaboration with the Energy &
Environment Commission has proclaimed April 22 as Earth Day in the community.
Earth Day is intended to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's natural environment. Earth
Day was founded by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin on April 22, 1970, as a day to focus
attention on environmental issues. While the first Earth Day was focused on the United States, Earth Day
is now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network and is celebrated in more than 175 countries. In
2009, the United Nations designated April 22 International Mother Earth Day.
According to the Earth Day Network, Earth Day is the largest secular holiday in the world, celebrated by
more than a half-billion people. Earth Day is a reminder to commit to learning more about the
environment and how you can help protect it by taking action and stimulating public policy.
Energy & Environment Commissioners point out many ways to protect earth. Among them:
Save energy, money and the environment by taking the Edina Energy Challenge and scheduling a
visit by the Home Energy Squad. Sign up for Windsource through Xcel Energy to reduce
greenhouse gases and support renewable energy.
Shop for produce at the Centennial Lakes Farmers Market.
Reduce, reuse and recycle. Replace plastic bottles with a reusable water container.
Plant trees and grow your own vegetables.
Drive less by combining trips, walking and biking. Reduce engine idling.
Use organic fertilizers. Mulch grass clippings.
Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Adjust the thermostat up in the summer and
down in the winter. Install CFL light bulbs and buy Energy Star appliances.
Be a smart water consumer.
Think about the issues that concern you the most and have conversations with friends, neighbors and
elected officials. Join a local group that undertakes activities to help protect the environment. Investigate
opportunities by visiting www.EdinaGoGreen.org.
-30-