April 22, 2020 marks the fiftieth anniversary of Earth Day, and its message has never been more relevant. According to a 2018 United Nations report, global emissions must be reduced in half by 2030 to prevent a global average temperature rise of 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, a threshold that scientists have set to avoid the most dangerous climate warming events. The actions we take today will determine whether April 22, 2070 - the hundredth anniversary of Earth Day - is a celebratory call to continued action, or a time to look back on missed opportunities.
Earlier this semester, Vassar College joined thousands of our peers in declaring a climate emergency. While significant, immediate action is needed, we believe the worst impacts of climate change can be averted. This Earth Month, please join the Office of Sustainability in sharing what you're personally doing today to preserve the environment for the Vassar of 2070 and beyond.
Submissions are being collected between now and the end of April through the Google Form below. All collected messages will be preserved in a time capsule to be opened by the Vassar community on April 22, 2070. With your permission, your pledge will also be shared on this page.
A public commemoration of the time capsule's burial site will be held in Fall 2020.
"I'm reducing waste - and consumption - by thinking through if I really need something before I buy it. Whether it's a single use disposable product or something with a little more staying power, I try to be mindful of what I buy."
"I'm teaching my kids how precious the environment is and helping prepare them to be part of the next generation of climate leaders"
"I'm orienting my lifestyle around sustainable transportation options so I dont need to rely on cars "
"I'm doing my best to practice Leave No Trace principles so that our natural areas can be enjoyed by our children.
"I'm teaching my parents how to sort our recycling at home."
"I'm went vegan while at Vassar and now that I am at home with loved ones, I encourage those around me to be as vegan as possible. I plan to be vegan for the rest of my life"