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5 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day and Honour Earth Month in Calgary
Earth Day and Earth Month are a great reminder for all of us to take action and think about how we can help protect the environment. Whether you’ve always been focused on sustainability or just starting to explore a greener lifestyle, there are plenty of ways to make a positive impact. Here are five easy ways to celebrate Earth Day and honour Earth Month in Calgary – including joining Wolf Willow for an Earth Day event April 19-20!
1. Celebrate Earth Day and Pick Up a Free Tree Seedling at All WestCreek Community Show Homes!
This Earth Month, WestCreek Developments is hosting a special community-wide initiative across CornerBrook, CreekView, Legacy, and Wolf Willow! The event highlights the WestCreek’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, from preserving wetlands to creating green spaces and protecting natural treasures like the Bow River, Pine Creek Valley, and important environmental reserves.
As part of the initiative, tree seedlings will be given out at every show home in each of the featured communities. It’s a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors alike to contribute to a greener future by planting a tree and celebrating Earth Month together!
You can pick up a free tree seedling at any Wolf Willow show home between April 19-20 (while supplies last)! All you have to do is stop by, pick up your seedling, and plant it in your yard following these steps:
- Pick the perfect spot: Make sure your tree or shrub has plenty of room to thrive! Check for buried utilities, power lines, nearby trees, and other obstacles that could limit growth. Plus, don’t forget – a sunny spot is key for healthy, happy plants!
- Prep the area – Clear grass and weeds within at least a 30 cm (12-inch) radius where you’ll plant.
- Dig the hole!
- Plant with care – Place the seedling upright with the root collar at ground level. Never plant a frozen seedling.
- Water and fill – Moisten the soil, then backfill around the roots, pressing firmly. Cover the roots completely but keep the first branches above ground.
- Final Watering – Give your tree a thorough drink, but avoid overwatering if the soil doesn’t drain well.
- Protect your trees from pests – Keep rabbits, mice, and other critters away with proper barriers or repellents.
Be sure to tag us on Facebook and Instagram with your pictures of your newly planted trees!
2. Flex Your Green Thumb and Plant a Garden
Planting your new tree seedling might be just the inspiration you need to start your own garden! Gardening helps support local ecosystems, promotes biodiversity, and reduces your reliance on store-bought produce (which also cuts down on food miles!). Whether it’s a few herbs on your windowsill or growing some of your favourite vegetables in your backyard, getting your hands a little dirty is a small but powerful way to contribute to a healthier planet.
If you’re in Calgary, consider planting native species that thrive in our climate. Native plants require less water and are better suited for local wildlife, making them a great addition to any home garden. Plus, growing your own food means less waste, fewer chemicals, and more sustainable living! Here are some tips for planting your vegetable garden from the City of Calgary.
3. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle — and Get Creative!
We all know the “reduce, reuse, recycle” mantra, but are we really practicing it? Earth Month is the perfect time to double down on your commitment to cutting waste. Start by switching to reusable items like bags, bottles, and containers. It’s simple, easy, and effective. It’s also important to refresh your knowledge on what items are recyclable and what recycling options are available through the City of Calgary – you can find those details here.
Tip: Don’t forget to get creative with your recycling! Repurposing old items, like turning mason jars into flower vases, reduces waste and gives old things new life. The more we reuse, the less we contribute to landfills, and the more we contribute to a greener planet.
4. Walk, Bike, or Take Public Transit
Transportation is one of the biggest contributors to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. This Earth Month, why not leave the car at home and walk, bike, or take public transit? Calgary’s public transit system is a great way to get around without the carbon footprint of a personal vehicle.
With warmer weather officially arriving, this is the perfect time to bring out your bike! It’s not only great for the environment but also a wonderful way to stay active and explore the beautiful Wolf Willow community and Bow River area. If cycling isn’t your thing, try walking to your local coffee shop or store instead of driving – it’s a simple way to help to reduce emissions and make our communities greener.
With a network of scenic paths and beautiful parks, Wolf Willow offers easy access to outdoor adventures and social hubs. Whether you’re heading to the Bow River, Fish Creek Provincial Park, or Blue Devil Golf Club, you’ll find that nature is just a stone’s throw away. With bike paths, bus routes, and the Somerset-Bridlewood LRT station, you’ll have all the convenience you need at this exciting early stage of development.
5. Save Water: Small Changes, Big Impact
Did you know Canada has Canada has 7% of the world’s renewable fresh water? It’s a priceless resource, and it’s important we use it wisely. Saving water at home is an easy way to make a huge difference. Try simple things like fixing leaky faucets, using water-efficient appliances, or turning off the tap while brushing your teeth.
Another easy option is to consider adding a rain barrel to your yard to collect rainwater, which can be used to water your plants or garden. It’s a win-win addition: you’re saving water, and your garden gets the hydration it needs without tapping into the municipal supply! Starting April 1st, the City of Calgary has partnered with Green Calgary to provide all Calgarians with an opportunity to receive a rebate on up to two rain barrels! Get all the details here and learn more about using a rain barrel, its maintenance, and important steps to follow when watering your garden.
Join Us in Making a Difference This Earth Month!
We hope these five tips inspire you to take action and celebrate Earth Month in a meaningful way! And don’t forget about our Earth Day event — it’s the perfect opportunity to do something good for the environment, have fun, and make your home a little greener. Reminder to pick up a free tree seedling (while supplies last) at one of our builder’s show homes in any of our WestCreek communities between April 19-20!
