Together, We EARTHRISE
Over fifty years ago, millions of people from around the world participated in the first Earth Day event and together launched the modern environmental movement. Please join us here, virtually, to learn more and to take action. The world needs us all. And there’s much you can do to help protect our planet.
Biology is an inherently broad and diverse discipline, ranging from studies of the molecules of life to whole ecosystems. Life is interconnected, and this concept emerges over and over again in our world.
Earth Day 2022
Whether you get your news online or from a newspaper, it’s clear that climate change is a persistent problem, and our natural systems are under constant pressure from extreme weather events. Biologists at UCI — and the world over — continue to uncover more evidence of the negative effects of climate change, particularly on biodiversity, and are finding solutions that will help preserve Earth’s natural resources.
Watch Past Earth Day Videos: A Virtual Visit with Biological Sciences Experts
Meet a few of the BioSci experts. Hear from Dean Frank LaFerla and BioSci faculty as they discuss current research related to climate change and effects on the environment.
Learn More about BioSci in the News
Coronavirus Disrupts Vital Field Research – Including Disease Transmission
4/4/20
Coronavirus Lifestyle Improves Climate-Change Behaviors. Will It Last?
4/3/20
Plastic Pollution May Be Spreading Antibiotic Resistance.
3/4/20
These Infrared Images Show Just How Alive Butterflies’ Wings Are.
2/7/20
Model Predicts Future Phytoplankton Boom in Tropics.
1/27/20
What Fungi Tell Us About Climate Change.
1/21/20
Asm. Petrie-Norris Asks Governor to Sign Sea-Level Rise Bill
9/19/2019
Why Science Needs the Humanities to Solve Climate Change.
8/1/19
Flying Colors: Researcher Reveals Hidden World Through the Eyes of Butterflies.
7/2/19
These Corals Choose to Eat Plastic Over Food.
6/25/19
Meet the ‘Star Ingredient’ Changing Fortunes in Alaska’s Waters: Seaweed.
6/11/19
Watch More Videos Related to Climate Change and Earth Day
How Much Do You Know?
How much do you know about climate change and global warming? Here are a few questions to test your knowledge. Click on the question to see the answers.
Climate change or global warming?
The term “climate change” helps convey that there are more changes in addition to “global warming,” an average increase in temperature of the atmosphere near the earth’s surface.
Do cattle and sheep contribute to global warming?
Yes. They emit large quantities of methane, which is more harmful to the atmosphere than CO2.
Do trees help climate change?
Yes, trees store carbon and help prevent the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Trees that shade your home can reduce summer sun and winter wind, mitigating energy use.
How can you reduce the environmental impact of your next vacation?
A – Plan your trip so you stay in one spot instead of moving around a lot.
B – Use local public transportation once there.
C – Eat locally grown foods; also a great way to experience a new cuisine.
Can global warming affect the economy?
Yes. Warmer temperatures, sea level rise and extreme weather can damage property and critical infrastructure, impact human health and productivity, and negatively affect wildlife, agriculture, forestry, fisheries and tourism.
Go to EarthDay.org to quiz yourself further.
Take Action!
Combat Climate Change:
A few simple things you can do to help combat climate change – in the house, garden and while traveling. Click on the subject below for more info.
In the House
-Use compact fluorescent lightbulbs and energy efficient appliances to reduce energy use.
-Turn out the lights when you leave a room. Turn off electronic equipment when not in use.
-Reduce your use of plastics and paper. Recycle plastics, paper and aluminum whenever possible.
-Repair leaky faucets and toilets.
-Switch washing machine temperature from hot to warm or better yet, cold.
Yard and Garden
-Buy products made or grown locally, indigenous to the area.
-Plant water tolerant trees, shrubs and groundcovers. Shaded homes use considerably less energy to cool in the summer.
-Substitute porous surfaces for paving. Instead of cement or gravel, use stone paths with lots of room between the stones.
-Use a rake instead of a leaf blower to get exercise, reduce noise, save energy and avoid adding to air pollution.
-Try ladybugs to combat aphids, instead of insecticide. A single ladybug can eat 5,000 aphids in its lifetime.
Traveling
-Going on vacation? Turn down the temperature on your hot water heater before you leave.
-Turn your car off instead of idling for more than a minute or two.
-Instead of driving, walk, bike or take public transportation whenever possible.
-Choose hotels and lodges that take sustainability measures.
-Eat in restaurants that offer locally grown foods and vegetarian options.
Spread the Word:
- Share what you know about climate change with your friends, family, and children.
- Share this web page with your family and friends!
- Check out the official EarthDay.org website.
Vote for the Planet!
- Your vote matters!
- Do your research and cast your vote for candidates committed to taking action to improve our planet.
- Unsure if you are registered to vote? Confirm your registration on the EarthDay.org website here.
