By Cecilia Nasmith
With Earth Day coming up, Northumberland County announces the return of the Mayors' Keep The County Clean Challenge – and encouraging residents to pitch in to build awareness of the importance of preserving and protecting our environment during local Earth Day activities taking place the week of April 17.
Earth Day annually takes place April 22 - “an opportunity to come together to make a positive impact on the environment, and the health and well-being of our community,” Warden Mandy Martin said in the announcement.
“County council invites residents to participate in the county's Earth Day initiatives to broaden their awareness of environmental issues, and preserve and protect Northumberland's unique and beautiful natural assets for future generations.”
The mayors' challenge is a friendly competition in which municipalities call upon their residents to clean up litter and waste in their communities – the roadsides, parks, nature trails, lakeshores. Last year, 1,960 volunteers removed 9,800 kg. of litter county-wide during the week-long challenge. The winners? The Town of Cobourg took the honours for most volunteers, while Alnwick-Haldimand Township achieved recognition for hardest-working volunteers (based on the greatest quantity of litter removed per person which, in this case, was 42 kg.). This year's challenge runs from April 17 to 22.
There is also the 20-Minute Makeover on Friday, April 21, where individuals are encouraged to spend a few minutes to beautify an area in their own neighbourhoods or places of work. No registration is needed – just grab a bag and some gloves and head outdoors.
The press release noted that Earth Day began in 1970 and has been celebrated around the world.
“With the growing risks and realities of climate change and an increasing focus on protecting the earth's natural resources, this day inspires collective action for a more sustainable future,” it said.
“Northumberland County is committed to promoting and supporting positive actions to improve sustainability, preserve natural assets and create a healthier environment.”
To register – and to learn more about the mayors' challenge and other Earth Day initiatives – visit Northumberland.ca/EarthDay
