There are countless environmental awareness days and events happening globally for you and your employees to celebrate year-round. Here are a few environmental awareness days coming up in October that you should really put on your calendar.
Energy Efficiency Day – October 6th Happening every first Wednesday of October, Energy Efficiency Day is a collaborative effort by energy efficiency advocacy groups across the U.S. such as the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Alliance to Save Energy, and more.
The message, “Save Money. Cut Pollution. Create Jobs,” highlights the core themes of Energy Efficiency Day as hundreds of companies, organizations, government agencies and other participants exchange tips, tools and stories on the benefits of energy efficiency. Not only is it the simplest way to reduce energy-related pollution and cut consumer bills, energy efficiency also supports over 2.4 million U.S. jobs in manufacturing, construction and other industries.
Get involved this Energy Efficiency Day by evaluating your energy use habits and making improvements through investing in energy-saving appliances and technology, reducing idleness throughout your operations and educating staff on the importance of energy efficiency. You can also contact your energy provider about green energy options for your business , research local and state funding for renewable energy or pursue a LEED certification to improve your building’s efficiency.
By signing up to participate in the 6th annual nationwide Energy Efficiency Day, you can announce your commitment through social media and press templates and join the growing network of energy efficiency advocates.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day – October 11th Advocating for the environment also requires us to support the wellbeing and livelihoods of people, especially groups that have too often gone suppressed and voiceless. While October 11th marks Indigenous Peoples’ Day for the U.S. and focuses on Native American communities, the day is meant to recognize, celebrate and honor the traditions, cultures and histories of all Indigenous people worldwide. Indigenous Peoples’ Day also makes an effort to acknowledge past injustices and uplift Indigenous communities.
Through their close relationships with nature, Indigenous groups have provided invaluable wisdom and insight on how to live more harmoniously with the planet and each other. Listening to and supporting Indigenous communities is an essential part of achieving global sustainability.
On October 11th, you can show your solidarity by:
Reading Indigenous literature Hosting a movie screening Attending an eventAttend an Indigenous-led event happening in your community to learn about the needs and challenges these groups face. Supporting Indigenous communities and their businessesBuying from sustainable Indigenous-owned businesses creates jobs and financial stability for Indigenous communities, supports diversity and sustainability-rooted business models, and discourages damaging cultural appropriation from non-Indigenous brands. World Food Day – October 16th Designated in 1979 by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the U.N. (FAO), World Food Day is an international awareness event focused on finding solutions to end world hunger and food insecurity. In fact, almost 40% of the global population cannot afford a healthy diet.
Every year, a large number of events – hunger marches, cultural performances, lectures, exhibitions, concerts, and more – are organized across 150 countries to transform food systems and ensure everyone has access to affordable, healthy food.
Celebrate World Food Day by planning an event online or in-person and utilize the various promotional materials provided by FAO. Tune in to the global discussion around food insecurity and its tie to climate change, and improve your company’s food waste management. There are a variety of ways you and your employees can support reliable and sustainable food systems such as composting , diversifying your diet, supporting small, local food producers, and dressing sustainably.
Make A Difference Day – October 23rd Created in 1992 by USA WEEKEND magazine and joined by nonprofit Points of Light, Make A Difference Day marks the largest national day of community service. While no longer sponsored by USA WEEKEND and Points of Light, observance still continues throughout the country in efforts big and small.
Make A Difference Day is a great opportunity for you to show your commitment to sustainability and the options are endless:
Volunteer in your community Donate to One Percent for the Planet or another environmental organization Be a business mentor on sustainability Pursue a green business certification to validate your sustainability achievements and efforts Support biodiversity by including native plants in your landscaping Conserve energy and resources by switching to energy-efficient appliances Install recycling bins throughout the office Educate yourself and your staff on today’s environmental and social challenges Join a food recovery program to donate your leftovers to those in need Switch to 100% natural, eco-friendly cleaning products Buy from local, sustainable businesses Opt for more plant-based meals at work Recognize and reward your hard working staff
