Clearwater Residents Urged To Switch Off Lights April 15 At 9 p.m.

CLEARWATER, FL — The city of Clearwater is celebrating Earth Month this April by hosting a range of environmental and sustainability activities.

One of the activities calls upon residents and visitors to switch off their lights at 9 p.m. April 15 to raise awareness for environmental issues and climate crisis.

This idea stems from the World Wildlife Foundation’s global environmental movement, Earth Hour. The city encourages individuals, families and businesses to do their part to reduce collective energy consumption this Earth Month. While going dark for an hour is just a symbol, the city challenges everyone to practice climate-friendly habits at home and work for a sustainable future on Earth.

“Join me in switching off the lights at 9 p.m. on April 15 in support of Earth Month,” said Clearwater Mayor Frank Hibbard. “Electricity is the biggest contributor to our communitywide greenhouse gas emissions, and conserving resources is a community effort and that will require everyone’s participation.”

The health of residents and the economic and sustainable future is one of Clearwater’s top sustainability and resiliency goals. The city invites residents to take part in celebrating with these events:

April 21, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Arbor Day Tree Giveaway

The Arbor Day Tree Giveaway will take place at Joe DiMaggio Sports Complex, 2450 Drew St. Take home two trees and plant them this Earth Month.

Trees are important in the fight against climate change. As they grow, trees absorb and store carbon emissions that otherwise cause global warming. In an urban setting such as Clearwater, the shade from trees cools city streets, reduces air pollution, and boosts personal wellbeing and health.

April 22, 4 to 7 p.m.: Earth Day Cleanup

An Earth Day Cleanup will take place at the Clearwater Beach Pier 60, 7 Causeway Blvd. Keep Pinellas Beautiful, the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival, Ocean Allies, Amplify Clearwater and the city have joined forces for an Earth Day cleanup at Clearwater Beach.

Everyone is welcome to join, get in some exercise and help keep the beach beautiful. Beach cleanups help reduce coastal trash from entering the sea, protecting marine environment for biodiversity to thrive. Click here.

April 23, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Earth Day Celebration

There will be an Earth Day celebration at Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane, featuring presentations, children’s arts and crafts, music, vendors and food.

April 30, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Shred-A-Thon & Medicine Take-Back

On the last day of Earth Month, shred your unwanted documents and dispose of your old prescription medications safely with the help of Clearwater Solid Waste/Recycling and the Clearwater Police Departments at Countryside Mall, 27001 U.S. 19 N. Proper waste management keeps the environment safe and healthy for one another.

Residents can share their experiences with friends and family on social media using the hashtag #ClearwaterEarthMonth. To learn more about Clearwater’s sustainability and resiliency programs, click here.