As the world reels from the spread and impact of COVID-19, one of the few silver linings has been the temporary relief that the “stay at home” message has had on our environment. From ducks in the Trevi Fountain to pollution-free skies over Los Angeles, our planet is demonstrating just how healing a small respite can be.

Here in Australia, from our living rooms and balconies and back yards, lockdown is an invitation to reconnect with the simple things we might have been taking for granted, and re-learning what brings us the most joy. And for many of us, that joy comes from access to nature: to blue skies, clean air, shady trees and the feel of grass under bare feet. It’s no surprise that during the. recent weeks and months, the limited time we have been able to spend outside has become ever-more precious to us Aussies. We prefer to be, after all, “young and free.”

Today we celebrate Earth Day and, even though we may be stuck at home, there are many choices each of us can still take to protect our planet, and help her hold on to some of the fragile gains she has made during these difficult days. What this looks like will be different for everyone, but whether this means campaigning, composting or changing the car air filter, every one of us has an opportunity to contribute to the health of our planet. There’s an excellent list of ways to make a positive impact on the Earth Day website, here.