Earth Day is Monday, April 22, but events that raise awareness about conservation and remind us of our responsibilities to the environment are going strong all month long.
Earth Day is a public health observance, as far as RHHD and our partners like Richmond’s Parks & Rec Department are concerned. “Studies have shown that time spent green spaces and park settings have been linked to better health outcomes,” says Parks & Rec Community Outreach Coordinator Qui Nguyen. “Community-wide, densely forested areas can create micro-climates that can create cooler ambient localized temperatures. Urban tree canopy can shade roadways, sidewalks, and buildings, helping to reduce Urban Heat Island Effect.”
On and around Earth Day, Qui says that organizations have worked hard to provide meaningful, high-impact opportunities for residents to care for and learn about our environment: “Richmond is blessed with many caring and engaged community groups, doing great work in our city in helping it to be a better place for all residents – both human and animal! They’re hosting events from trash pick-ups to tree plantings, nature walks and talks, to even large events where local groups showcase their programs and projects in the hopes of spreading awareness about environmental issues and gain new activated members. I encourage everyone to go out and take part of any of these events, but with the extra challenge of searching out a NEW group or program that you weren’t aware of before!”
Below, Qui shares some options for getting involved during the Earth Day season: “Our hope is for Richmond residents to take these opportunities to come out to some of our park sites that need a little bit of love and attention. These are public spaces, meant to be enjoyed by all – help us in taking care of them!”
If you want to learn more about Richmond Parks & Rec’s youth programs and community workdays throughout the year, or you’re ready to check out a new park, visit rva.gov/parks-recreation!
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