Earth Day: The story behind it and my advice on how to take part in the green revolution

Happy Mrs. Mother Earth's Day! There are countless anniversaries. But today we're focusing on something a little more serious in my opinion - Earth Day - which is slowly gaining ground in Denmark.

The story behind Earth Day

Earth Day is a holiday that has been celebrated on April 22 every year since 1970. Its purpose is to draw attention to the world's environmental problems. April 22 is therefore a day that holds a special place for those of us who want to take part in the sustainable transformation or The Green Revolution, as I call it.

The day was created for the sake of Mother Earth. And on Earth Day, extra efforts are made for the environment and increased focus on the importance of sustainable development.

Earth Day originated in the US in the 70s in response to an oil spill that occurred in the state of California. The driving force behind the movement was Senator Gaylord Nelson, who managed to generate a lot of support among the American population. 20 million people took to the streets to protest against environmental pollution and to raise awareness of the environment.

Since then, the importance of the day has only increased and it is now celebrated all over the world.

Why is that?

We were barely a quarter of the way into the year when Denmark had already used its share of the world's natural resources for 2022. And we are the 15th country in the world to have used up its share of natural resources that the planet can recreate in one year, according to the think tank Global Footprint Network.

This means that Denmark went into pure overconsumption for the rest of the year on March 28.

We may think of ourselves as a green leader, but we are actually one of the most resource-intensive countries in the world. We live beyond our means with our significant overconsumption.

According to the Danish Society for Nature Conservation, it would take more than four Earths to cover the consumption of resources if everyone lived like in Denmark. One of the reasons why Denmark goes from consumption to overconsumption so early in the year is that Denmark is the country in the EU that produces the most waste per capita. Therefore, our waste can be a place to start.

Climate change is a serious threat, both now and for future generations. I think it might be the occasion for us to rediscover ourselves as a part of nature by working together. And maybe we can reunite as ONE whole, united globe, where there is no time to fight each other, but instead help each other to fix our common home.

We need to start telling the motivational stories that can give us new visions of what the good life is. Stories about closeness, relationships and responsibility, community with both other people and nature. The prize is BIG: that we can secure the future of our children and descendants on a planet filled with life and diversity. It's time for change and a different way of living.

What can you do?

Indeed, what can we possibly do about the abysmal climate and environmental chaos we are facing? When you, like me, sometimes lose your courage and overview. I can be so infinitely struck by world pain at the thought that the universe's billions of years of development have ended with this: A culture where we fall over with stress to afford everything that undermines our own, our children's and many other species' livelihoods.

But something must be done! And we have to start with ourselves. Imagine if everyone did something! - As much as you can, in your everyday life - at home and at work.

First - Join The Green Revolution - "Be the change that you wish to see in the world."

First and foremost, we must soon understand and recognize the gravity of the situation! Secondly, we must grasp the nettle and open our eyes to the need to make significant lifestyle changes. And it must be NOW. We are the first generation to feel the consequences of climate change and we are the last generation that can do something about it. And it's urgent!

Even though it may seem like a daunting task to make your everyday life more sustainable. Earth Day is a great opportunity to rethink your habits and make an extra effort for the environment.

So here are 7 simple suggestions on how you can make your life a little more sustainable.

1. The garbage thing! Sort or recycle your waste.
2. Leave the car behind. Get on the iron horse and wake up your leg muscles. Not only is it better for the environment, it's also free exercise and good for your health. Sounds like a win-win.
3. Eat less meat and dairy. I have changed my life and rediscovered the joy of cooking - by now eating 100% plant-based. And let me tell you, meat-free dishes don't have to be boring at all. But 2-3 meat-free days a week is better than none.
4. Turn off the lights after you. I meant it when I said simple advice. Remember to turn off the lights after you when you leave a room. It will also save you money on your electricity bill.
5. Turn off the water when you put soap in your hair. This advice needs no further explanation. Turn off the water when you're not using it.
6. Eat seasonal fruits and vegetables. Buy what's in season and try to buy Danish produce to save the environment from unnecessary pollution.
7. Buy second-hand and small but good. If you need new furniture, clothes or other gadgets, first check if you can get more quality for your money by buying used. And when buying new, go for sustainable quality that lasts a long time rather than cheap products that break after a short period of use.

Put on your climate uniform!

If you need a climate uniform to remind you to make sustainable choices in your everyday life, I have designed a number of "climate warrior" prints that you can order on the webshop. I will personally print the prints after ordering. So there is zero overproduction :) See the full selection here.

Happy Earth Day!