Earth Day guide to environmentalist websites

The 46th annual Earth Day is coming up on April 22. In the spirit of supporting the environmental movement and cherishing our planet, here are some websites that will help you to be more environmentally conscious, 365 days a year. (After all, we should all strive to educate ourselves more about our environment not just for Earth Day, but for every day of the year!)

Offset – NASA created a game that demands quick reflexes and multitasking skills that also shows players how the global carbon cycle works, and how to offset excesses of carbon dioxide. It’s fun, it’s free, and it’ll teach you about how reforestation and reduction of carbon emissions can help save the planet. You can download it from iTunes here, or play online here. 

Earth Now – Keep track of global temperatures, carbon dioxide levels, sea levels, and more with this app from NASA. (Available for both Apple and Android devices!)

Environmental Working Group – This site analyzes the environmental impacts, and toxicity levels of household cleaning products, cosmetics, and even food. Check out the products that you use every day—you might be surprised at what toxic chemicals you’re exposing yourself to.

Environmental News Network – The Environmental News Network allows you to stay up-to-date with the latest in environmental news and politics. Keeping informed about current environmental issues is a simple way to help out. After all, the best kind of voter (or future voter) is an informed one.

Scorecard – Find out how your community stacks up in terms of pollution. This site allows you to enter your zip code and access your area’s history of chemical releases, pollution, and water and air quality. You can also find helpful information like whether or not your house is in a lead hazard zone. 

EcoHearth – This site is home to environmental blogs, an environmental online magazine, and a shop with environmentally-friendly products. Here, you can find information on environmental issues and cool DIYs. To make things even easier, you can even subscribe and have weekly updates delivered to your inbox!

Green Living – Learn about water-saving flowers, healthy (and all-natural!) recipes, environmental news, and so much more.

Planet Green Recycle and All E Waste – Earn green by going green for your school by hosting an electronic waste recycling event!

Educating ourselves about our environment is the first step to ensuring that our planet stays in good shape, and it can be a lot more fun than you’d think. Give these apps and websites a try, and you might find yourself learning something new about the world. Happy Earth Day!