Join ASUCLA’s Earth Day Celebration: Promote Sustainability and Raise Climate Awareness!

On April 22, Bruins came together on the Kerckhoff patio for “Planet & People: A Sustainability Celebration,” marking Earth Day with enthusiasm. The event included a book swap where attendees exchanged books, voted on their favorite nature photographs taken by students, and shared their personal sustainability goals.

The ASUCLA Volunteer Community, a group dedicated to supporting and fundraising for UCLA initiatives, played a key role in organizing this celebration. Jesus Angel Rodriguez, a third-year political science and public affairs student, shared that the book swap was a great way for students to discover new reads while giving someone else a chance to enjoy a book they no longer needed. “Many students want to give back,” Rodriguez explained. “That’s what higher education is all about.”

Another highlight of the event was a pledge station where Bruins committed to pursuing a more sustainable future. Elease Lui Stemp from UCLA’s Sustainable LA Grand Challenge expressed her intention to shop at second-hand stores instead of fast-fashion retailers. “Making small changes can lead to bigger ones,” she noted. “Before you know it, you’ve made significant strides towards a sustainable lifestyle.”

The celebration wrapped up with Earth Day trivia, challenging participants on their knowledge of climate issues. Alice Chen, another member of the Sustainable LA Grand Challenge, mentioned that students interested in the environment can enhance their understanding by enrolling in climate-related courses offered at UCLA.

Chen also highlighted sustainability as a political issue, tied closely to governmental actions. For instance, the Trump administration rolled back several key policies aimed at combating climate change, including exiting the Paris Climate Accord and loosening regulations on mining and coal production. Recent statements from the Environmental Protection Agency suggest a reconsideration of previous reports on greenhouse gas emissions and their threats to health and the environment.

Rodriguez emphasized the importance of such events, especially in light of ongoing climate challenges. “With all the daunting news out there, it’s vital that we show we care for the Earth,” he said. The gathering fostered a sense of community, reminding attendees of their collective responsibility to the planet.

Investing in sustainability starts with small habits. Recent surveys indicate that about 70% of millennials are willing to pay more for eco-friendly products. This shift in consumer behavior points toward a growing awareness and desire for change. Embracing sustainable practices not only benefits the environment but also enriches community ties and promotes a healthier planet.

As more people commit to sustainability, grassroots movements like this Earth Day celebration remind us that every small action counts. Simple changes can lead to a brighter future for our planet.

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