Earth Week is the perfect time to pause, appreciate the planet, and maybe even get a little dirt under your fingernails. Whether you’ve got a green thumb or just love a good nature walk, here are 15 ways to celebrate that are easy, rewarding, and just plain fun—with a few ideas that go the extra mile for the environment.
1. Hit Your Local Nature Trail
Unplug, lace up, and hit a trail nearby. Whether you hike, bike, or stroll, connecting with nature is good for the soul—and it reminds us what we’re protecting.
2. Plant Something Native (and Pollinator-Friendly)
Support your local ecosystem by adding native plants and pollinator favorites like lavender, milkweed, or penstemon to your yard or patio pots.
Need inspo? Your local botanical garden is a goldmine and makes for a great weekend day trip. They often have dedicated native species sections so you can see mature versions of the plants, and many work with you to help source them.
If you're in the Salt Lake Metro area, head to Red Butte Garden for expert tips and family-friendly wildlife activities.
3. Visit a Dark Sky Zone
The Western USA is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking night skies. Pack a blanket, snacks, and stargaze at one of many certified International Dark Sky Parks near you.
4. Join a Cleanup (or Start One!)
On April 26th, join us at the Fish for Garbage cleanup and help protect Utah’s waterways while having a blast with like-minded volunteers.
Can’t make it? There are cleanups throughout the year! Learn more and find one near you: Fish for Garbage
5. Turn Your Lawn Into a Water-Saving Oasis
Utahns: Did you know you can get paid to convert your lawn to xeriscape? Learn about rebates up to $3 per square foot at Utah Water Savers. Not from Utah? Many cities and states offer similar incentives to plant trees, convert park strips, and xeriscape. If you have been thinking about making a change to your yard, hop on google and see if you can get paid to do it!
6. Put Out a Bird Feeder
Hang a feeder and see which feathered friends visit. Chickadees, finches, or even hummingbirds—it’s like a nature documentary from your window.
7. Start a Mini Pollinator Garden
You don’t need a yard—just a couple pots with bee- and butterfly-friendly plants can do wonders. Not sure where to start? Browse Xerces Society’s Pollinator-Friendly Plant Lists for top picks by region.
8. Learn Local Tree Species & Go on a Tree Hunt
Download a plant ID app or grab a field guide, then go see how many trees you can name by bark or leaf. Bonus: great date idea!
9. Audit Your Trash & Recycling
Peek at your bins. Are you recycling everything correctly? Could you compost more or swap for reusables? Awareness is the first step!
10. Set Up a Rain Barrel
Collecting rainwater for your garden saves water and gives you an oddly satisfying reason to check the weather forecast.
11. Make One Low-Waste Swap
Switch to a reusable tote, water bottle, or beeswax wrap. Easy win.
12. Cook a Plant-Based Meal
Try this summer gazpacho recipe—it’s refreshing, delicious, and one of our personal favorites. Eating more plant-based is an easy way to lighten your footprint.
13. Compost Your Coffee Grounds (Or Go Bigger!)
Start small by tossing your coffee grounds into your garden, or if your yard (and local ordinances) allow, consider investing in a countertop or backyard composter.
A little effort, a lot less landfill waste. Free nutrient dense soil for the garden!
14. Give Old Clothes New Life
Turn worn-out tees into rags or try your hand at upcycling. You might just create your new favorite piece.
15. Make a Personal Earth Month Pledge
What’s one new habit you want to build? Use less plastic? Walk more? Water less? Write it down and make it stick. Even tiny changes ripple out.
Whether you do one or all fifteen, Earth Month is about finding joy in nature and creating small shifts that can make a big impact over time.
Have fun. Get outside. Do a little good. Happy Earth Month! 💚
P.S. We have a bonus item that lands you some amazing Happy Elephant Swag
16. Donate to the Borneo Conservation Trust
What’s one way to look great while giving to real on-the-ground conservation in one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems? Donate to the BCT here and receive a limited edition “Happy Planet” t-shirt! This shirt is the perfect way to wear your impact. Do good, look good!
