Army Earth Day 2009: Sustaining the Environment for a Secure Future

By Ms. Cathy Kropp (IMCOM)April 21, 2009

Army Earth Day 2009: Sustaining the Environment for a Secure Future

What is it'

The Army's celebration of Earth Day began April 22, 1970. The idea was spearheaded by Gaylord Nelson, a U.S. senator from Wisconsin. The campaign for Earth Day began as a grassroots effort to teach environmental stewardship, create awareness of the environment's fragility and ultimately thrust that awareness into the mainstream of American society. The campaign caught on quickly and evolved into Earth Day, now celebrated each year on April 22.

What has the Army done'

The U.S. Army celebrates Earth Day at numerous installations, major commands and organizations in the continental United States and around the world. The Army's Earth Day theme, "Sustaining the environment for a secure future," reflects its commitment to meet the current and future needs of Soldiers, their families and the nation through the sound stewardship of environmental resources. Army events vary from Earth Day fairs with educational exhibits, to tree plantings, to other initiatives that actually sustain installation operations. Additionally, the Army is committed to making energy security and environmental conversation a consideration for all Army activities in an effort to reduce demand, increase efficiency, seek alternative sources, create a culture of energy accountability and environmental stewardship while sustaining or enhancing operational capabilities.

Why is this important to the Army'

The Army's strategy for the environment emphasizes the interdependence of the requirements of our military mission, its natural environment and community well-being. In this strategy, environmental stewardship is a mission enhancer that leads to better training lands, improved recreational opportunities, healthier communities and new partnerships. Environmental sustainability is now part of every installation's and unit's operations, from munitions production to live-fire training, from its housing areas to forward operating bases.

What's planned for the future'

The Army's observance of Earth Day provides an opportunity to support the Army's mission by doing something to preserve the natural environment on Army installations and contribute to the well-being of its communities. Earth Day is a time for everyone - Soldiers, families and civilians - to consider the "boot print" they make, and the impact they have on natural resources whether they are on an installation, deployed or in their home. By sustaining the environment, the Army can assure its strength and quality of life for generations to come.

Army Green is Army Strong

Resources:

For Army Earth Day materials and event ideas visit: <a href="http://aec.army.mil/usaec/newsroom/earthday00.html" target="_blank">U.S. Army Environmental Command</a>