Whether already an activist or still struggling to sort recyclables, we all have a prime opportunity during the week of April 22 to renew our individual and collective pledge to tread more lightly on the planet.

“Environmentalism touches every part of our lives, from what we eat to what we wear to what we breathe,” says Earth Day Network President Kathleen Rogers. “Learning about where our food comes from or how a product is made can be fun,” she continues, “and awareness is the foundation for action.”

More than a billion citizens have already registered their acts of green through the organization’s website; this year, the campaign seeks to engage a billion more. Suggestions range from the personal, such as pledging to stop using disposable plastic, to the political, in calling our congressional representatives to reestablish a tax credit program for renewable energy.

With an estimated two out of every three people on Earth expected to be living in cities by 2050—straining water, energy and transportation systems—Earth Day Network has chosen Green Cities as this year’s theme. Advocates are calling upon cities to invest in smart grids, overhaul outdated building codes and increase public transportation options.

Visit EarthDay.org to pledge a personal act of green, find a volunteer opportunity or learn more about the re-greening of urban communities around the world.

 

Earth Day Extravaganza at Nature’s Pantry

Nature’s Pantry, a natural foods store in Fishkill and New Windsor, NY, is celebrating 25 years as a family-owned business in the Hudson Valley by hosting a huge Earth Day Extravaganza. The free event takes place on April 12 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Fishkill store.

Earth Day Extravaganza is designed to both honor the planet and thank the community for more than two decades of support. Nature’s Pantry is giving away Earth-friendly gift baskets and two big raffle prizes at the event. Visitors can also meet with representatives from local companies, try product samples, and learn how to be “greener” that day.

Established in 1989, Nature’s Pantry eventually grew to include two locations, both of which boast a large organic produce section, bulk foods, a variety of allergy-friendly goods, supplements, and all natural household and beauty care departments. The Fishkill location also has a deli that features fresh juices, smoothies and healthy foods made daily.

Nature’s Pantry is located at 1545 Rt. 52 in Fishkill, NY, and 436 Blooming Grove Turnpike (Rt. 94) in New Windsor, NY. For more information, visit NaturesPantryHV.com or email [email protected].

 

Saturday, April 12

Nature’s Pantry 25th Year and Earth Day Community Celebration – 11-2pm. 1545 Rte.52, Fishkill. Info: 845.765.2023. NaturesPantryHV.com.

Saturday, April 19

Earth Day at Hilltop Hanover – 10am-4pm. Come celebrate Earth Day at Hilltop Hanover Farm; enjoy a 2-hr guided woodland hike at 10am; farm tours at 12pm & 2pm to learn about the different elements needed for a sustainable working farm. Info: HilltopHanoverFarm.org.

Greater Ossining Earth Day 2014 – 11am-4pm. Family Day to help keep Ossining beautiful and learn about living a more sustainable life. Louis Engel Waterfront Park. Ossining. greenossining.org/2014/02.

Sunday, April 20

Beacon Sloop Club Clean-up – starts 11am. Free. Everyone invited. Plastic bags and gloves provided. Location: Sloop Club house down by the Beacon Train Station. No pre-registration necessary. Info: 845.464.5163.

Tuesday, April 22

Press Conference: Earth Day Kick-off. White Plains City Hall Steps at 4 pm. Mayor Thomas M. Roach announces the Earth Week Sustain White Plains activities.

Saturday, April 26

Sustain White Plains Earth Day Street Fair – 12-4pm. The biggest event during Earth Week White Plains. Mamaroneck Avenue and Main Street, White Plains, NY.

Sunday, April 27

Earth Day & Arbor Day Celebration – 11am-3:30pm. Build a rain barrel, learn about home composting, work on trails, help prepare gardens, plant a tree and more. Free. Info: Greenburgh Nature Center. 914.813.1251. greenburghnaturecenter.org.