How to Celebrate Earth Day with BARC
BARC has been working toward diverting precious resources from landfills all over Michigan for the past 15 years, and we look forward to continuing our conservation efforts with the help of our wonderful supporters. Although we give back to the planet 365 days a year, it’s always fun to celebrate with the whole world every April during Earth Month!
We are so lucky to be surrounded by the natural beauty of Northern Michigan and the incredible people that call it home. Our beautiful great lake state has abundant natural resources but is also a place where environmental challenges exist. The BARC team is focused on doing what we can to make a positive environmental impact here in Michigan, but we can’t do it alone. If you are looking for ways to give back to your planet this month, please consider donating to help BARC reach our fundraising goals, or read this guide on ten ways to give back to the planet this Earth Day!
Celebrate Earth Day by Supporting Our Conservation Efforts: Help Us Reach Our Fundraising Goals
Mattress Recycling Program
This year, BARC secured a $500,000 grant to automate our mattress recycling process. In the next five years, we’ll have the potential to quadruple the number of mattresses we divert from landfills into reusable commodities. We are still looking to raise additional funds to continue expanding this program. Please join us at our special Mattress Fundraiser in Kaleva on May 19th or make a donation.
Composting Program
BARC’s composting program has diverted thousands of tons of food waste from community institutions, restaurants, and grocery stores to local compost facilities for years. Unfortunately, in May 2022, BARC had to pause the Composting Program as our staffing and equipment were inadequate to maintain service. We are in the process of creating a collaborative solution with business, nonprofit, and municipal partners to expand our regional capacity to manage food waste beyond what BARC could ever have managed alone as a small nonprofit. Please make a donation to help us create our new recycling program.
10 Ways to Give Back to the Planet this Earth Day
As Earth Day fast approaches, it’s essential to reflect on how we can positively impact our planet. If you need some help, here are ten ways to give back to our planet this Earth Day and beyond!
Donate to an Environmental Non-Profit Organization
Many incredible environmental non-profit organizations in Michigan focus on giving back to the planet. Show your support by making a donation to BARC and other organizations like Green Elk Rapids, NMEAC, SEEDs, and For The Love of Water.
Participate in a Beach Clean Up
One of the best things about Michigan is our incredible freshwater beaches. However, sometimes they can get littered with pollution that harms wildlife and our waterways. Luckily, many organizations like the Great Lakes CleanUP have beach clean-up opportunities you can participate in! To find upcoming clean-up events throughout the United States, check out the Alliance for the Great Lakes website.
Make Eco-Friendly Swaps
Making eco-friendly swaps part of your routine is a great way to give back this Earth Day and every day! For example, plastic bags and water bottles are major contributors to environmental pollution. By swapping these out with reusable bags and bottles, you can help divert plastic pollution from landfills all over Michigan!
Reduce Food Waste
Every year, an estimated 1.1 million tons of food waste is disposed of through its municipal waste stream in Michigan alone. To combat this problem, you can reduce food waste by planning your meals strategically to avoid overconsumption. In addition, you can choose to support local restaurants in your area that are environmentally conscious when it comes to food waste.
Conserve Water
Water is a precious resource in Michigan, and conserving it is crucial for the environment. You can help minimize your footprint by taking shorter showers, fixing leaky faucets, and being mindful of your usage. Plus, the less water you use, the less expensive your monthly water bill will be!
Use Public Transportation
Cars are a major source of pollution, especially when you drive alone. Consider using public transportation, biking, or walking whenever possible instead of driving now that the weather is warming up!
If you live in Traverse City, save the date for the annual Smart Commute Week by TART Trails. It’s every year from June 5th – June 9th. The week includes events promoting cycling, walking, bus taking, and carpooling. Plus, free daily breakfasts are hosted at various locations around town for all participants!
Support Local Farmers and Businesses
Buying locally grown produce reduces the environmental impact of transporting food long distances. Michigan has some incredible local farmers’ markets all over the state you can support, like Farmers Market in Traverse City, Boyne City Farmers Market, and Eastern Market in Detroit.
Recycle with BARC
If you are spring cleaning and looking to eliminate items without contributing to landfills, recycle with BARC! We offer our recycling services on tons of items at an affordable price that you can feel good about. Check out our pricing to learn more about our recycling process and services.
Start Volunteering
Volunteering with BARC is a great way to get involved in 2023. We are always looking for more volunteers to help us further our mission to inspire an eco-conscious culture here in Northern Michigan.
Educate Others
Spread the word about environmental issues and encourage others to take action. You can educate others by sharing helpful articles (like this one) on social media, organizing community events, or by giving presentations.
Earth Day is a time to reflect on our impact on the planet and take action to make a positive change. By taking these steps, we can all do our part to protect Michigan’s natural resources and ensure a healthier planet for future generations!