Earth Day: A Reflection amidst Solitude

During a time of unprecedented disruption, the world’s strength continues to be challenged. We have seen non-stop news coverage of a terrifying politicized health crisis. But we’ve also witnessed glimmers of hope and heartfelt stories — of neighbors coming together to help the vulnerable, the power of digital humanizing connections, and pollution levels drastically declining.

While greenhouse gas emissions are down and air quality has gone up, we can’t view this as a boon for the environment. We must still push for a systemic shift toward a more sustainable economy— one that works for both people and the planet. These short-term benefits, such as China’s 85% increase in days with good air quality, the visibility of the Himalayas for the first time in years, and unpolluted canals in Italy, show the way we interact with (or refrain from engaging with) our environment can have a positive impact. These pockets of environmental hope, however, likely will be short-lived.

While the fate of our world is uncertain, what won’t change is the urgency of climate change. It’s critical that companies maintain – and increase – their commitments to sustainability. Businesses and individuals must also pressure their legislators to support them by establishing more sustainable systems. If we take this as an opportunity to rebuild, rather than to simply weather through, we can emerge on the other side of this better prepared to fight climate change.

Fifty years ago on the first Earth Day, 20 million people took to the streets. While we can’t do that exactly if we want to protect our community, it is imperative to act together — from home — to demand a livable future. We can ask our utility companies about switching to renewable energy, use washable cloths instead of paper towels, substitute plastic for a reusable water bottle, order in responsibly (say “no” to plastic cutlery and chopsticks), don’t use one-day shipping, eat less meat (you don’t have to go cold turkey), or opt to receive digital letters over paper mail (see here for additional ways to live sustainably). We can literally vote with our wallet by choosing to support brands that are actively working toward our climate targets. We can participate in social and (socially distanced) movements to demand policymaker attention and action. As cliché as the pandemic messaging is, we truly are stronger together.

In the midst of the most challenging public health and economic crisis in over a century, we must persevere the health of our planet and build a sustainable future. No matter where we are in the world, we are connected by our challenges and a fierce and urgent determination to overcome them. It will take the collective efforts of businesses and individuals to push for progressive policies that protect each and every one of us.