2016
Tuesday
April
26

Did you know trees bear 70% of humanity's Ecological Footprint?

Earth Day is about celebrating the wondrous planet that sustains us. It’s also the perfect day to take a moment to reflect on our relationship with the Earth. Here’s the scoop: On August 8, 2016, we will have used as much from nature as our planet can renew in the whole year. That’s right, Earth Overshoot Day will land just 108 days from now. This means we will consume 67 percent more ecological resources and services than nature can renew this year, through overfishing, deforestation and emitting more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than forests can sequester. The consequences of this "overshoot" include shrinking biodiversity, collapsed fisheries, eroded topsoil and climate change.

But we are still optimistic, and here’s why: The world is on the cusp of positive change. Last December, 195 nations and the European Union pledged to combat climate change as part of a historic UN agreement in Paris. Today, on Earth Day, UN delegates are officially signing the Paris climate change agreement at a high-level ceremony in New York City. In addition, the United Nations launched global goals to achieve humanity’s collective dream—sustainable development—last September.

If there ever was a time to roll up our sleeves and take action…that time is now. Ahead of Earth Overshoot Day, let’s act to reverse the trend of overshooting our planet’s resources.

Here’s our invitation to you: Join us and take part in our action campaign to pledge for the planet, as a citizen and as a consumer. Make small or big lifestyle choices. Get involved in supporting systemic change. Help create a future where planet and people thrive. Use your voice on social media to spread the word that we can start now to build a world that our children’s children will want to live in.

We will be regularly introducing new action items for you to consider over the next few months — choose the ones that resonate with you the most and that you’ll be excited telling your friends about. Keep an eye on our newsletter and Facebook Event communityfor details!