Earth Day 2021
The pandemic and lock down last year affected each one of us differently but no doubt, affected us all. Let’s focus on the positive effects as there are many. One that was instantly obvious to me was cleaner air and reduced pollution. Reduced travel, vehicle use and human activity helped tremendously. I noticed it more here in Colorado where we live. Denver’s skyline was clear and visible for miles on end. The lack of pollution in the air was such a refreshing feeling.
Through images and videos, I saw how more wildlife was out and about. This all happened in the course of a few months and while it is not sustainable to live that way, it clearly illustrates the difference we all can make by being more mindful of our actions.
You are probably wondering how you can help and make a difference. I have a few ideas you can follow:
Join Nature First Photography! It is free, and all you have to do is do your best to adhere to the seven principles. You don’t have to be a professional photographer or even a photographer to join. The principles are easy to follow and require little to no effort. Just conscious thinking.
https://www.naturefirstphotography.org/en/why-nature-first
Prioritize the well-being of nature over photography.
Educate yourself about the places you photograph.
Reflect on the possible impact of your actions.
Use discretion if sharing locations.
Know and follow rules and regulations.
Always follow Leave No Trace principles and strive to leave places better than you found them.
Actively promote and educate others about these principles.
Create an environment that attracts pollinators and focus on using native plants. This can be done in your front yard, backyard, deck etc. Plant flowers, plants, trees that are native to the place you live (Think of native plants over grass). Native plants typically require less water, they improve air quality and help with pollution. They eliminate the need to mow the grass. A lot of times we plant beautiful flowers not knowing how invasive they can be. I did this in my front yard when in CA and quickly remedied my mistake after finding this ou
Carry a trash bag with you. Whether you are out enjoying the trails hiking our out and about in an urban environment. Collecting trash that others carelessly drop is not glamorous but it is a small act of kindness we can all do.
What better gift to give your children. It is their future, their home that is at stake. Learning to love, appreciate and protect our planet at a young age helps children develop an appreciation and respect for life and all living things. It fosters empathy. When children understand the importance of their relationship with nature, they are less likely to want to destroy it and will work to protect it.
Today we also celebrate the second anniversary of Nature First Photography. This organization is growing rapidly all over the world and I am happy and proud to be part of it. Will you sign up today?