Saturday marks Earth Day, an annual international day for connecting with nature. Since 1970, worldwide events have been held to demonstrate support for protection of our environment.
While our local efforts have been mostly devoted to cleaning up various areas around town, we need to remember that many groups continue a year-round struggle to protect nature.
The United Nations Charter of Rights has a clause stating “Nature has an inalienable and fundamental right to exist and flourish.” Inalienable means unable to be taken away and refers to a natural right that cannot be revoked by any force.
It is the duty of human beings to protect and promote nature on which we all depend.
To quote Rt. Rev. Desmond Tutu, “To serve as custodians of nature, requires that we act.” The traditional indigenous view of the environment is that all things are connected; we must not only take from nature, we must also take care of nature.
It is a truism that people only protect what they love, and they only love what they know.
To get people to care enough to help save our environment, they need to become familiar with nature. Getting a sense of ownership only comes from going out to help with environmental projects.
Volunteering your labour is the most cost effective way of acting to save our planet. Volunteering is enriching for the participant and beneficial for our town. There are many groups engaged in Earth-friendly work that will not only last for one day but will continue for the entire year.
Volunteers are the roots of a strong community. The link between emotional well-being and volunteering has been proven to exist into one’s golden years.
Volunteers benefit from increased social interaction, more outdoor activity and the good feeling of contributing to ones community. It is essentially a very optimistic activity that adds value to the community.
Human beings need a real connection with others in order to fully understand opinions and develop a sensible and calm exchange of ideas.
Working on mutual projects is a fine way to smooth out dialogue. Visiting nature is a tonic that boosts our well-being, reduces stress and improves “joie de vivre.”
Squamish is blessed to have nature at our doorstep.
Our urban and mountain paths give vitality to our community. Trails provide diverse recreational activities to walkers, strollers, runners, perambulators, bikers and equestrians. Dirt bikers, snowmobilers and all-terrain vehicle drivers can even roar in their safe havens.
We need to preserve, maintain and improve the network of trails if we are to retain our claim to be the “Outdoor Recreation Capital – Hardwired For Adventure,” These efforts need volunteers year round. Don’t be shy – contact the various groups to help out as best you can.
