Earth Day is a yearly effort to boost exposure and raise awareness for environmental causes that occurs on April 22. Many coalitions and groups around the world participate in Earth Day efforts, such as Piedmont’s PEACE Club. PEACE, or Piedmont Environmental And Conservation Efforts, is led by President Avonlea Kirby.
Started in 1970, Earth Day was created as a way to combat the severe pollution and regulation issues occurring at the time. As a result of nationwide demonstrations and protests, Congress created the Environmental Protection Agency. The Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act would soon follow. This spirit of community collaboration is what has inspired groups like PEACE.
“Our goal is to try and educate the campus on how to be more environmentally friendly and give back to our Mother Earth,” Kirby expressed. This year, they’re partnering with Piedmont’s Campus Activities Board to hand out pamphlets and give out reusable water bottles.
“If everyone worked together to be more environmentally friendly, it would have a much greater impact on our Earth,” Kirby stated.
PEACE does monthly trash clean-ups, recycling events and invasive species removals. Additionally, Kirby provided some tips on how to be more environmentally conscious for the average college student.
This includes:
- Walking or carpooling to class
- Using a reusable water bottle instead of single-use plastics
- Turning off the sink while brushing your teeth
Some other tips include:
- Unplugging small appliances when not in use
- Thrifting and donating clothes
- Avoiding shopping hauls and buying what you need
- Opting for used textbooks or rentals
The PEACE club will be in the commons on April 22 to answer any questions or provide information on the importance of Earth Day and environmental awareness. For more information on the club, contact Avonlea Kirby at [email protected].
