A group of dedicated local volunteers is organizing an amazing list of activities all month to celebrate the Earth & Aquidneck Island. Learn more about the tree plantings, clean ups, walks and more at https://mdl.town/EarthWeek online.
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CONTACT: Matt Sheley at (401) 842-6543 or msheley@middletownri.com
ACTIVITIES PLANNED ALL APRIL TO CELEBRATE EARTH & AQUIDNECK ISLAND
MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (APRIL 6, 2022) – Nature, beauty and community are being celebrated across Aquidneck Island this month.
As part of Aquidneck Island Earth Week organized by a dedicated group of volunteers, everything from tree plantings to shorebird strolls, cleanups, art contests and so much more are planned to help people connect with their home — and each other.
Local resident Sara Poirier said by working locally on environmental and related issues, everyone can make a real, lasting difference they can see immediately. Poirier is one of the organizers of Aquidneck Island Earth Week and also a member of the Town’s Open Space & Fields Committee.
To learn more about Aquidneck Island Earth Week and to see a complete list of events, visit https://mdl.town/EarthWeek online.
“One of the goals of Aquidneck Island Earth Week is to strengthen the network of organizations working on issues related to the environment, conservation and sustainability,” Poirier said. “This is important because the challenges we’re facing with climate change, and food and energy security require everyone to work together — not just Town Departments and non-profits — but also schools, local businesses, artists, residents and community leaders.”
Across the world, one of the main draws of Aquidneck Island is the natural beauty and energy of the place.
Known for some of the best beaches, open spaces and walking trails anywhere, people from around the globe spend their free time here as a way to recharge their batteries naturally.
However, based on the work of nonprofits like the Aquidneck Land Trust and others, this beauty and peace are being threatened.
According to a recently released “Aquidneck Island Development Impact Analysis” report commissioned by the land trust, there will be no more unprotected open spaces remaining on the island by 2050 if development and conservation continue at their current rates.
The study by Sasaki & Associates suggested smarter development in areas where growth should occur and better communication and partnerships among the municipalities on the island.
Poirier said by having a number of people across the area taking small steps for the long-term health of the island, bigger change can happen through Aquidneck Island Earth Week — and beyond. Organizers said this year’s celebration was the largest in the event’s history.
“We hope to inspire Aquidneck Islanders to care and take action for the environment,” Poirier said. “The scale of Aquidneck Island Earth Week is important. It demonstrates that we can work together as a community to take care of the things that we love. This is critical for people to feel hopeful about the future.”
Town Administrator Shawn J. Brown said the list of activities was impressive for Earth Week and the volunteer group’s efforts were much appreciated.
“Middletown, and Aquidneck Island as a whole, are extremely fortunate to have such wonderful, committed residents and businesses,” Brown said. “If you look at the activities and the range of people and partnerships that are coming together, it’s really something. I know I’m looking forward to a number of the activities and it’s great that there’s something for everyone as part of Aquidneck Island Earth Week.”
DOCUMENT LINK: https://www.middletownri.com/DocumentCenter/View/4369/nycu-aiew
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