ATHENS, Ala. — Monday marks the 54th national observance of Earth Day. The Library of Congress says that an estimated 20 million people nationwide attended events promoting environmentalism awareness at schools, universities, and community sites across the United States.
Here in North Alabama, communities continued the tradition of educating people of all ages what it means to reduce, reuse, recycle, and conserve with a series of weekend events.
"We are celebrating the environment and nature and how to coexist," said Claire Tribble, Executive Director of Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful, adding that Earth Day is about the past and the present as well as the future when describing Athens' local Earth Day exhibits.
"We have 'Legacy,' It's environmental education; and we have 'Forging Ahead.' They are native landscape experts. We have reptiles. We have the petting zoo with a kangaroo. We have [magician] Steve Trash. We have raptors."
The petting zoo was a particular favorite of siblings Zyan, Nathan, Giannah, and Alyssa McKinnie. They gave rave reviews of the soft rabbits ("Feels like soft coats!") and the appearances of llamas and kangaroos.
The McKinnies were also eager to try the pottery class that was also on-site.
Tribble says the expo is an easy way for people to learn more about Earth Day's purpose and history.
"It's just a good opportunity for everyone to learn a little bit more about the natural world, how to coexist. We just hope to inspire people to come back to nature a little bit."
The City of Huntsville also observed Earth Day early with a free celebration at the Hays Nature Preserve. Earth-friendly exhibitors gave informative and interactive displays, along with demonstrations from the Southeastern Raptor Center. Event leaders held a vegetable plant giveaway, face painting, concessions and more.
Huntsville's Green Team says there are things we can do everyday to be more environmentally responsible.
"It's just important that we all do our part," said Nikole Sothers with Green Team's landscape management team. "Whether that's picking up litter, that's making decisions on trying to buy in bulk ... Sometimes it is spending that little bit more money or investigating a little bit more before you make a purchase and you realize you could do something just a little bit greener."
Green Team has several litter pick-up events scheduled for May and June. They also encourage you to "Adopt a Spot" to clean up litter in the area of your choice.