5 Ways to Support Environmental Protection in NYC

Each year, we celebrate Earth Day on April 22, the anniversary of the date in 1970 when 20 million Americans participated in environmental rallies across the country. Now the entire month of April is Earth Month, dedicated to improving the environment for current and future generations.

As committed urbanites, New Yorkers may prioritize social and health issues over environmental concerns. However, the environment can significantly affect an individual’s – and an entire community’s – well-being in a variety of ways.

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Some issues, such as air pollution, affect the city as a whole. One study found that premature deaths caused by air pollution in the city were eight times as prevalent as murders.¹ But the five boroughs are diverse, each with their own environmental priorities. As a concerned resident, how can you focus your time and effort to have the most significant impact on your community?

The EPA has created a tool called EJSCREEN: an environmental mapping tool that can be used to explore environmental issues in your neighborhood. Using EJSCREEN, you can learn more about the demographics of your area, and the specific environmental issues that impact your community.

If you are feeling inspired to volunteer your time and effort to improve environmental conditions in your neighborhood, there are a variety of organizations dedicated to this very purpose.

 

New York Restoration Project

The New York Restoration Project partners with community groups throughout the city to promote a healthier NYC, organizing efforts to reduce pollution and improve parks and community green spaces. The NYRP is the only citywide conservancy dedicated to bringing green initiatives to all five boroughs.

Volunteers can join a Forest Crew, protecting local flora and fauna by removing invasive plants while learning about horticulture. They can also get a tree for their own space, through MillionTreesNYC, or apply for NYRP sponsorship of a new community garden.

Volunteer with the New York Restoration Project and work for a greener NYC here.

 

City Parks Foundation

The City Parks Foundation leads a variety of programs for arts, education, culture, and sports in city parks, intending to make them centers of their NYC communities. Programs include SummerStage, Central Park’s free outdoor performing arts festival; the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival; and a variety of fitness and sports programs throughout the city.

For more information on how to contribute to the City Parks program, volunteer here.

 

Greenpeace

Greenpeace is an organization that is dedicated to bringing environmental issues to light through peaceful protest, challenging privilege and promoting diversity. Volunteers can participate in or mobilize action groups, contribute writing skills, or promote Greenpeace initiatives in organized social media campaigns.

Volunteer with Greenpeace here.

 

Earth Day Network

The Earth Day Network was created to inspire citizens to take action and promote environmental education and the protection of natural resources. They are committed to supporting green initiatives through a variety of programs; planting trees, reducing carbon footprint and pesticide use; and much more.

Today, Earth Day Network is also looking for volunteers to conduct ‘Acts of Green,’ with the goal of reaching 3 billion Acts by approach the 50th anniversary of Earth Day in 2020.

Take action, discover Acts of Green, and support Earth Day Network here.

 

Transportation Alternatives

If supporting and promoting alternative transportation is more interesting to you, Transportation Alternatives is an organization that works to promote walking, biking, and using public transportation throughout the city. Initiatives include supporting traffic initiatives to improve safety and save lives.

Get involved with Transportation Alternatives here.

 

Spring is finally here, and as the city begins to bloom it is the ideal time for New Yorkers to focus on the green spaces in their neighborhood – both those that are currently available and those that can be created or improved through the efforts of community volunteers. Check out the NYXT content partners for more ideas on how your time and energy can be put to a great cause – supporting environmental initiatives in NYC for the betterment of your community.

 

Sources:

¹ http://www.gothamgazette.com/index.php/government/5111-while-improving-quiet-crisis-air-quality-persists-new-york-city-asthma-air-pollution

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