Groups throughout the county and region are marking Earth Day with outdoor projects and activities this week.
Roadside cleanups, tree plantings and educational programs filled the calendar.
The first Earth Day on April 22, 1970. At the time there was no Environmental Protection Agency, no Clean Air Act, no Clean Water Act.
This despite Rachel Carson’s book “Silent Spring” which awakened environmental consciousness and led to the banning of DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane), a widely used pesticide, especially during and after World War II, known for its effectiveness in controlling insects that spread diseases like malaria and typhus. However, it was later banned in the United States due to concerns about its harmful effects on wildlife and the environment.
Carson’s book, published in 1962, inspired subsequent generations of activists and policy makers to protect the land and biodiversity.
Most Baby Boomers can recall learning about the importance of caring for Mother Earth as grade school students. So it is only natural that they now engage in activities that improve, preserve and educate about the planet.
Residents of and visitors to Leelanau County have a great affinity for the water, dunes and natural features.
Many grew up elsewhere where industrial pollution has wreaked havoc with nature and appreciate our Perfect Peninsula.
We salute the many organizations that contributed to this Earth Week.
Among them are the Leelanau Conservancy, the Northport Tree Committee, Leelanau Dark Sky Committee, Green Suttons Bay, the National Park Service and the Leelanau Conservation District.
Future generations thank you.
