Tomorrow, April 22nd, is the 53rd anniversary of the first Earth Day that began on April 22nd, 1970.
The concept of Earth Day was, and is, to raise awareness of the world’s environment and climate. Gaylord Nelson, a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin came up with the idea after a massive oil spill in 1969 in California.
Each year, people have celebrated on Earth Week by taking part in activities such as picking up litter and planting trees.
On Thursday, April 20th, the more than 600 students of Saugeen Central Elementary School in Port Elgin with their blue gloves, combed the streets looking for trash in a massive clean-up operation. From the very young to the senior Grade six students, they walked the streets with parent volunteers and teachers, filling garbage bags.
“We have been teaching the students throughout Earth Week about the environment and how important it is to appreciate and give back to the community,” said Principal Wendy Cumming. “All the students and teachers are doing something in some capacity. It was the idea of staff to have a major clean-up within walking distance of the school.”
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Earth Week draws to a close tomorrow on Earth Day, Saturday April 22nd, with many events being held in the region.
- Rotary Shred ‘n’ Go
- Owen Sound Celebration
- Thorncrest Outfitters hosting a River Clean-up 10 a.m. to noon at Dennys Dam access 15 – prizes and can be used towards community service hours for students
- Clean-up on Bruce Rd. 33
- Beef Way (Hwy. 21) BBQ and children’s events
