Green Holidays in the United States: Celebrating Sustainability

Living sustainably isn't just a trend — it's a commitment to making our planet healthier for future generations. In the United States, numerous green holidays throughout the year encourage us to take action for the environment. Whether you’re reducing energy consumption, planting trees or switching to renewable energy, each small step contributes to a more sustainable world. Let’s explore some of the most impactful green holidays and how you can participate in them.

National Cut Your Energy Costs Day (January 10)

The new year is the perfect time to evaluate energy consumption and find ways to reduce costs and waste.

• Conduct a home energy audit to identify areas where you can improve efficiency.
• Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances or install a smart thermostat and enroll in a demand response program to optimize heating and cooling.

International Reducing CO₂ Emissions Day (January 28)

Carbon dioxide emissions contribute to climate change, and reducing them is crucial for a sustainable future.

• Audit your home for CO₂ emissions by checking heating systems, insulation and energy use.
• Volunteer for an organizations that actively work to reduce emissions, such as tree-planting groups or clean energy advocacy groups.
• Check out Green Mountain Energy’s 100% clean electricity plans.

Global Recycling Day (March 18)

Recycling helps to reduce waste, especially of natural resources, making it an essential practice for environmental conservation.

• Host a recycling challenge at home or in your workplace to encourage proper waste disposal.
• Explore upcycling projects that give old items new life and reduce landfill contributions. For starters, shoes are items that are easy to upcycle or repurpose.
• Explore Green Mountain Energy’s green living tips for more ideas about recycling, including e-cycling and donating unused household items.

Earth Day (April 22)

One of the most well-known environmental holidays, Earth Day, is a call to action for sustainability worldwide.

• Join a community cleanup event or take part in a project to improve local ecosystems such as planting trees.
• Switch to a renewable energy plan for your home, like the Pollution Free™ All Nighter℠ plan from Green Mountain Energy, to significantly help reduce your carbon footprint.
• Learn about Green Mountain Energy’s Sun Club, which provides funding to green nonprofits around the U.S. You can get involved too!

Arbor Day (last Friday in April)

Trees are nature’s carbon capturers, helping to filter the air and combat climate change. 

• Donate to a reforestation project that helps restore ecosystems or simply plant a tree in your backyard.
• Learn more about the benefits of trees and how they contribute to a healthier planet.

Bike to Work Day (third Friday in May)

Transportation is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, but biking or walking can help reduce that impact.

• Bike to work or school.
• Use a bike to run quick errands.
• Advocate for bike-friendly infrastructure, such as bike lanes and bike-sharing programs, in your community.
• Attend a group bike ride, a great way to network with other cycling enthusiasts and share info about navigating your city via bike.

World Environment Day (June 5)

This global event raises awareness about pressing environmental issues.

• Start composting by turning kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost instead of sending it to landfills.
• Join or organize a cleanup at your local park, beach or river — every bit helps, and it can be a fun social occasion.
• Share sustainability tips on social media  — these are fun and make great photo ops — to inspire friends and family to go green.

Global Wind Day (June 15)

Wind energy is a clean and renewable power source that plays a crucial role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

• Learn how wind power supports a sustainable energy future.
• Visit a wind farm or research wind-energy plans available in your region.

Summer Solstice (June)

The longest day of the year offers a great opportunity to embrace natural energy sources.

• Make the most of daylight hours to reduce artificial lighting use.
• Learn about solar energy’s role in powering a more sustainable future and consider solar panel installations for your home.
  

Plastic-Free July (all month)

Single-use plastics are a major contributor to pollution and environmental degradation.

• Eliminate plastic waste by using reusable bags, bottles and containers for your shopping and neighborhood errands.
• Support businesses that prioritize sustainable packaging and zero-waste initiatives.

National Drive Electric Week (late September – early October)

Battery technology and electric vehicle offerings continue evolving in the car market, making EVs more and more accessible. Driving an EV can be a great option for reducing carbon emissions in transportation.

• Test-drive an electric vehicle to experience its benefits firsthand.
• Share your EV ownership experience to encourage others to consider making the switch.

Energy Awareness Month (October)

Raising awareness about energy efficiency helps promote sustainable habits that benefit both the environment and your wallet.

• Set a goal to lower your home’s energy use through efficiency measures like LED lighting and better insulation.
• Educate others about renewable energy options such as wind and solar power to promote cleaner energy choices.

These holidays highlight sustainability efforts, but you can practice these principles year-round. Every action can contribute to a healthier planet.

Whether you’re reducing waste, switching to renewable energy or simply spreading awareness, your efforts help create a greener future. Celebrate these green holidays and inspire others to do the same!

Learn how easy it is to power your home with 100% renewable energy with an electricity plan from Green Mountain Energy.