GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – In 1970, U.S. senator and activist Gaylord Nelson founded Earth Day as a way to push climate awareness to the forefront of the national agenda and advocate for an environmental agency. As a result of Nelson’s advocacy, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established and the Clean Air Act was passed, both in 1972. Nelson was later awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, for his efforts to drive ecological education and awareness in America.
Today, over 1 billion people across 190 countries mobilize for action every Earth Day!
What is the Earth Day theme for 2022?
The 2022 theme for Earth Day is “Invest In Our Planet“, according to Earthday.org, the organization driving positive action for our planet since the original Earth Day in 1970. Earth Day 2022 is dedicated to promoting accountability for businesses, citizens, and governments to do their part to fight climate change – and ignite the transition to an equitable and prosperous green economy.
Get Involved with Earth Day in Michigan
Earthday.org has compiled a list of events to participate in #InvestInOurPlanet, several of which are found in Michigan (see map below). View the interactive version at Earthday.org
Cultivating Sustainability in the Supply Chain
With increased organizational transparency and external demands to switch to sustainable business practices, organizations are pushing to take steps to reduce their carbon footprint. In transportation, more companies are designing solutions that reduce emissions, such as the use of intermodal shipping, or internal programs that prioritize renewable energy.
Because of the increased involvement of this movement, supply chain organizations can refocus on driving sustainable practices. In a study of three multi-national supply chain networks, Harvard Business Review provides best practices to promote environmental sustainability.
- Set company goals
- Encourage suppliers to set goals
- Consider a point person for efforts
Recently, FWF expanded its intermodal solutions, encouraging sustainability and reducing environmental impact in its supply chain network.
FWF Celebrates Earth Day
To celebrate Earth Day and promote sustainability, the Diversity & Inclusion Alliance (DIA) at FWF is participating in the Community Cleanup & Block Party in Grand Rapids. Team members have the opportunity to sign up and make a difference by cleaning up the West Michigan community, furthering understanding and knowledge of environmental sustainability.
The Diversity & Inclusion Alliance is extending our outreach to the West Michigan community for Earth Day! It is crucial that we take care of our environment, not only for our current generation but for those that will follow in the future. Though it is a small portion, we value FWF’s staff and Westside Community’s Cleanup’s dedication to helping keep our parks, roads, and other public spaces free from waste. We hope that you will join us and take part in keeping the earth clean and beautiful for years to come!
Garrett Lucas, Head of Training and Development, DIA Event Coordinator at FWF
Overview
Earth Day is an essential reminder for organizations to support sustainable business practices. Protecting the environment and empowering employees to engage with these initiatives will be imperative for success in 2022.
Learn more about FWF’s sustainability efforts by accessing these resources.
