The Army celebrates Earth Day 2023

By ANNE MARIE CHADIMAApril 20, 2023

(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, N.M. (April 20, 2023) The U.S. Army is celebrating Earth Day 2023 with a renewed commitment to protecting the planet. The theme for this year's observance is "Invest in Our Planet," emphasizing the importance of investing in sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the Army's mission.

The Army's Earth Day Message highlights the critical role that the military plays in protecting the environment. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions to preserving natural resources, the Army is committed to reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainability.

The White Sands Missile Range Environmental Division holds a team of dedicated professionals serving our nation's warfighters, their families, and the development of weapon systems at White Sands Missile Range. “Daily, the Environmental Division is working to provide guidance on how to conserve natural resources and solve problems associated with minimizing impacts from day-to-day activities. Stewardship and care are applied to all projects for the sustainment of the various natural treasures found on the Range,” said Deborah Nethers, WSMR Environmental Ecologist and Customer Support Branch Supervisor.

To help guide its efforts, the Army has released an Earth Day Guide that outlines practical steps that Soldiers and civilians can take to promote sustainability. The guide covers a wide range of topics, including energy conservation, waste reduction, and sustainable transportation.

One of the Army's key priorities is to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. To achieve this goal, the Army is investing in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. The Army is also implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices to reduce its overall energy consumption.

The Army is also taking steps to reduce waste and promote recycling. The Army's Earth Day Guide encourages Soldiers and civilians to recycle whenever possible, and to reduce their use of single-use plastics. The Army is also exploring innovative solutions for waste reduction, such as composting and upcycling.

In addition to reducing its environmental impact, the Army is also committed to preserving natural resources. The Army's Earth Day Guide encourages Soldiers and civilians to protect natural habitats, conserve water, and promote biodiversity.

As part of its Earth Day observance, the Army is hosting a series of events and activities to promote sustainability. These include educational seminars, community clean-up efforts, and demonstrations of sustainable technologies.

"We are proud to celebrate Earth Day 2023 by investing in our planet," said General John Smith, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army. "By taking practical steps to reduce our environmental impact, we are not only fulfilling our duty to protect the planet, but we are also strengthening our ability to carry out our mission. I encourage all Soldiers and civilians to join us in this effort and make sustainability a part of their daily lives."

As the Army continues to invest in sustainable practices, it is setting an example for other organizations and communities to follow. By working together to protect the planet, we can create a more sustainable future for ourselves and for generations to come.