Colombia, Japan, the Gulf of Mexico; this morning alone you have traveled across the world just by completing your morning routine. From the coffee you brew, to the car you drive, we are living as part of a global community. Earth Day is a reminder to keep ourselves mindful of all the small things we do that affect the planet we share.

Individuals and organizations are putting forth a variety of efforts to show their appreciation for the Earth. One example is the Peace Corps World Wise Schools program.  Teachers can invite returned volunteers to share their stories about environmental issues and culture. Or, teachers can direct students to the new Global Issues Investigations page, where they can explore three WebQuests that focus on the importance of natural resources for the health and well-being of communities. In these web-based simulations, students learn about problems related to soil, water, and environmental health, and work collaboratively to develop solutions following the model of Peace Corps Volunteers. Students will explore essential concepts in science and social studies, and use technology and language arts skills throughout the problem-based tasks.

Peace Corps, along with hundreds of other organizations, also supports the Global Youth Service Day, celebrated April 23-25. Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) is an annual campaign that celebrates and mobilizes the millions of children and youth who improve their communities each day of the year through service and service-learning.

Established in 1988, GYSD is the largest service event in the world and is now celebrated in over 100 countries.  Check out the map of activities around the world and find out how you can participate in an event or host one of your own.

The Peace Corps is just one example of what people are doing to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. If you have a story to share from this year’s Earth Day, please post it here on the blog.

Happy Earth Day!