Today is the 50th anniversary of Earth Day.  And on this day each year, one billion people all over the world pause and reflect on a simple fact that we too often forget: Our choices impact the health of our environment.  And the health of our environment determines our health. 

In fact, the first Earth Day was a response to an urgent and growing human health crisis. 

In the decades leading up to the first Earth Day, Americans were consuming vast amounts of leaded gas through massive and inefficient automobiles. Industry belched out smoke and sludge with little fear of the consequences from either the law or bad press. Until this point, mainstream America remained largely oblivious to environmental concerns and how a polluted environment threatens human health.

But thanks to many leaders, especially scientist Rachel Carson with her publication of Silent Spring, an awareness of the relationship between human health and environmental health began to dawn.  And in 1970, Earth Day was conceived as a call to action to reduce pollution in order to improve human health.

I know some of you are suffering financially right now due to a loss of income.  But for those of you who are able, right now we need your support.  Because despite the COVID-19 crisis, our entire team is continuing to work tirelessly each day on your behalf.  No one has been furloughed, and we hope to avoid this because our mission and our people are too essential for that to happen.

Here's a sample of what we've done in response to COVID-19 in just the past few weeks:

• Helped secure $25 billion in federal relief for transit agencies across the country, including CATS.
• Hosted two webinars, including one on how to stay active and explore nature in your backyard during COVID.
• Wrote six timely and informative articles including 10 Ways to Live Sustainably In a Time of Social Distancing and What Bikes Shops Are Still Open During the Stay at Home Order?

We aren't stopping because the need to inspire choices that lead to a healthy, equitable, and vibrant community for all has not stopped. 

So today I ask you to give what you can to Sustain Charlotte.  In honor of the 50th Earth Day, we're looking 50 people to contribute to our mission. It would help us most if you become a Sustaining Member so that we can count on your support all year long. But if making a one-time donation is better for you, please do that.  And if you are already a Sustaining Member, are you able to increase your monthly gift?  

Support Sustain Charlotte

Also, if you sign up today or tomorrow to give at least $10/month, make a one-time gift of $120 or more, or increase your monthly gift by $10, we will send you a Sustain Charlotte reusable utensil set for your picnics and meals on the go to help you eliminate your use of single-use plastic utensils.

Thank you for reading this, and thank you for your concern for our health -- and the health of future generations who will benefit from the actions you take today.

With gratitude and all my best to you and your family,

Shannon Binns
Founder + Executive Director