HOLLAND, MI (WHTC) – Today is Earth Day. Founded in 1970 as day of education about environmental issues it is now a globally celebrated holiday.
Senator Gaylord Nelson, a Democrat from Wisconsin was inspired by the antiwar protests of the late 1960’s, and Earth Day was originally aimed at creating a mass environmental movement. In the 1970’s several important pieces of environmental legislation were passed including the Clean Air Act.
Since then Earth Day celebrations have grown. In 1990 Earth Day went global, with 200 million people in over 140 nations participating.
Here are some events locally you can do on this Earth Day….
1. The Macatawa Area Express will offer free rides on its eight bus routes today to encourage residents to help reduce vehicle emissions. Buses run from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Buses depart from the downtown Padnos Transportation Center at the top of each hour. Check www.catchamax.org for bus routes and schedules or call (616) 355-1010.
2. CityFlats, 61 E. Seventh St., is encouraging the local business community to explore common interests in sustainability over happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m., and learn more about efforts by companies to promote local sustainable business practices.
3. The Allegan Conservation District Office, 1668 Lincoln Road in Allegan, has seedlings for more than 30 plant species for sale through April 30, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
