Celebrating Earth Day: Our Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
As we approach Earth Day 2024, it’s a time for reflection and action. Let’s take a moment to celebrate our planet and collectively work together to continue our commitment to its protection. At the heart of our efforts in environmental stewardship, is this year’s Earth Day theme: “Planet vs. Plastics.”
In our 2022 annual report Growing Together, we find a story of dedication and impact, particularly in the realm of education. Recognizing the pivotal role teachers play in shaping young minds, our Foundation has been a beacon of support, providing much-needed resources to classrooms across Canada. From storybooks to crayons to organic seeds for classroom planting, our Foundation’s initiatives have reached over 300,000 youngsters and we have invested $575,000 in these programs, igniting a passion for learning and environmental awareness.
One standout program is Plant a Seed’s school and community garden funding program. This garden initiative not only teaches children about the seed-to-table food cycle but also fosters a deep connection to the environment and the land. By engaging students in hands-on gardening activities, the Foundation’s annual report shows how our work cultivates a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world—a lesson that can last a lifetime.
Moreover, the Foundation’s commitment to digital outreach, such as online storytimes hosted by Brian Minter, Mark Cullen, Order of Canada recipients and Yves Gagnon all renowned gardening experts, underscores our dedication to spread environmental education far and wide. Through initiatives like these, the Foundation empowers individuals of all ages to become informed stewards of the planet.
To watch our storytime resources and motivational videos or to subscribe to our new YouTube channel, click here: https://www.youtube.com/@SeeWhatGrowsFoundation/featured
Earth Day 2024’s theme, “Planet vs. Plastics,” highlights that plastics, once hailed as a marvel of modern innovation, now pose a grave threat to human and environmental health. With plastics infiltrating our food, water, and even our bodies, urgent action is needed to curb their proliferation.
EARTHDAY.ORG’s call to action—to reduce plastic production by 60% by 2040—echoes the urgency felt by organizations such as ours. Through collaborative efforts with partners like The Root Cellar PEI, the Foundation has already made concrete strides in reducing plastic usage. By introducing the co-branded recyclable bags and supporting provincial bans on single-use plastics, the Foundation demonstrates its commitment a plastic-free future.
Photo Caption: The Foundation was proud to partner with The Root Cellar PEI with our recycled, recyclable and reusable bags. Prince Edward Island’s historic ban on single use plastics helped reduced 80 tonnes of plastic in the province.
To shop our shopping bags that helps us in the work that we do, click here: https://shop.seewhatgrows.org/product/shopping-bag/
As we stand at the crossroads of environmental crisis, the path forward is clear: Let’s continue our collective action and unwavering commitment. Earth Day serves as a poignant reminder of our interconnectedness with the planet and our responsibility to safeguard its future. Through initiatives rooted in empowerment through education, our Foundation through the collaboration and support of Whole Earth & Sea, continues to help pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient world.
Join us in celebrating Earth Day and committing to the ongoing journey of environmental stewardship. The time to act is now—for the planet, for future generations, and for ourselves.To read our full 2022 annual report, please visit: https://seewhatgrows.org/2022-annual-report/
