Earth Day: a day made to celebrate support for environmental protection every April 22. The event first started in 1970 and is now held globally in 193 countries.

Junior Caroline Gordon takes the opportunity to reflect on her environmental choices.

“It helps me understand that some habits I partake in don’t always benefit the environment,” she said.

Gordon thinks Earth Day is a good opportunity for everyone to do the same.

“In today’s world, there’s so much waste and consumption,” she said. “[Earth Day] gives us a chance to realize that there are better options out there than constantly consuming new things. We can go thrifting instead of buying fast fashion. We can recycle. We can use reusable water bottles instead of throwing away plastic.”

Gordon also stresses the importance of thinking forward in terms of environmental protection.

“A lot of people don’t see its impact because they’re like, ‘in my lifetime, it’s not going to affect me,’ but you have to also think about generations after you.” Gordon said. “It’s good for everyone to take a chance to reflect on that.”

Now, what can you do for Earth Day? Offer your time, pick up trash, plant a tree or recycle even if it takes longer.

“I feel like Earth Day isn’t just about the environment, but it’s also about people on Earth,” Gordon said. “It could be a good day for people to partake in something — trash cleanup or volunteer.”