Some of the most stunning photographs come from space. We can tune into the news, or open the pages of a newspaper from time to time and see the latest images captured from high-tech satellites orbiting out into the depths of the universe. Far off galaxies and star systems are seen for the first time, and we marvel over their beauty as we try to learn about some of the secrets trapped within them, millions upon millions of light-years away.

We don’t have to go far to see something equally as beautiful. Some of the most stunning images from space are of our own planet. When we view it from afar, it truly is remarkable. This glowing ball of blue and white stands out in sharp contrast to the black abyss surrounding it, and when seen from this vantage point I think it really reinforces how special our planet really is.

Today is Earth Day. From it’s humble beginnings in the ‘60s, Earth Day has steadily grown as more and more people take part and encourage others to spread the message of planetary stewardship, after all we only have one Earth and it deserves our full attention.

In recent decades our planet has faced some of its toughest challenges. Global warming is melting the Arctic and Antarctic, human activity has resulted in hundreds if not thousands of animal, plant, fish and bird species to disappear, our oceans are filling with garbage and acres of crucial animal habitat such as rainforests are being wiped out daily.

Here in the Kawarthas the natural beauty sometimes fools us into forgetting what is happening outside our region, but even here we’re not immune to changes being felt around the world. Polluted air from points west drifts into our homes, invasive species make their way into our lakes and we too face the challenges of climate change and global warming.

It’s not all bad news. Peterborough has been doing amazing things when it comes to caring for our environment and protecting our Earth. From passing one of the first pesticide and anti-idling by-laws in the country to encouraging its residents to conserve water and energy, the “green idea” has really taken root and I’m glad to see Peterborough and Ontario are leading the way.

While we’re making good headway there’s still much more that can be done. Making simple changes at home are some of the easiest things we can do. Using less water, having a home energy evaluation to show what parts of your home are inefficient that you may not be aware of, conserving energy by unplugging electronics when not in use are just a few. Jumping to the field where the “green sheep” reside can usually save you a few bucks in the end, too.

If you’re looking for some ideas of how you can green your life and become a better steward of our Earth, I encourage you to attend the Green Expo on Saturday. Businesses and organizations from around the Peterborough area will be present, showcasing products and services that are environmentally friendly.

“There will be lots and lots of exhibits, presentations, something for everyone, lots of education on green living,” says event organizer Laurie Collette.

One of the exhibitors will be Wendy Trussler, a local artist, who will be there with her Reworks business. Wendy makes art and furniture pieces from bits and pieces of reclaimed objects, such as springs from a chair, she gathers from a variety of sources.

If you have questions about home energy evaluations (the government recently boosted the grants by 25% for a limited time!) Peterborough Green-Up’s Alex Mortlock will be there to deliver a presentation and answer questions about the ecoEnergy program.

There will also be an exciting announcement happening at 11:15 with Peterborough MPP Jeff Leal and Green-Up’s Cathy Mitchell. A new program focusing on greening places of worship for religious and spiritual organizations—a first for the Peterborough area!

Collette is “really excited” about this year’s keynote speaker who is well known across Canada for her hard-hitting interviews and investigative journalism. CBC reporter and host, Wendy Mesley, will address those in attendance at 11:30 with a talk on how the media and marketers influence what we buy and eat.

The Expo is happening on Saturday from 10 to 4 at the Evinrude Centre, 911 Monaghan Road. Admission is only $5 and children under 12 get in for free.

Back to Earth Day for a moment, I encourage you to make a change in your life to make our Earth a better place to live. It can be as small as choosing to plant a native tree in your back yard, or as large as installing a more energy efficient heating system. It all adds up in the end and helps to keep our beautiful planet healthy. Remember, every day is Earth Day.