Earth Day Chicago Style

SocialYell is launching a major site update around Earth Day.  Leading up to our re-launch, we are taking a look at what some companies and organizations are doing to celebrate and honor Earth Day.  Want your organization’s plans to be featured on SocialYell?  Just let us know.

Chicago wants to become a leader among global cities in its environmental stewardship and vision.  As an integral part of that leadership, Chicago recognized an opportunity to dramatically reduce the city’s carbon footprint.  Mayor Daley and the city have made climate change a top priority and have formed the Chicago Climate Action Plan to help the city, its businesses and its residents lower greenhouse gas emissions and live in a healthier, more environmentally-friendly way.

The plan includes five main strategies and 35 sub-strategies for businesses and individuals to take action, but the city has devised a way to take those strategies to citizens in a creative and informative way to help residents understand that they play a valuable role in helping to reduce the city’s environmental footprint.  The CCAP is sponsoring the Earth Day 2010 Video Contest to enable students in Chicago’s middle schools, high schools and colleges to engage their creativity and talent to help teach the principles of the plan to all Chicagoans and have a chance to win some cash prizes for themselves and their schools to help out with education costs.

When:  Videos may be submitted now until April 12

Who:  All Chicago-area middle and high school and college students are encouraged to participate – individually or in teams

What:  Submit a 90 second video via the contest website detailing how you are making an impact by participating in one or more of the CCAP’s 35 strategies

Why:  The “why” is easy.  Chicago is on the right path with its dedication to global leadership in reducing carbon emissions.  It is not an easy task, though, to create a plan, generate interest and help people understand what they can do to help.  The video contest is a great use of Chicago’s outstanding student population, allowing them to demonstrate not only their environmental passion but also their creative talents.  Probably more entertaining than announcements from the city, these videos are an engaging way to share personal actions and information about taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  Plus, it benefits students’ education with prizes sponsored by the Abbott Fund.

Mayor Daley will announce winners on Earth Day (April 22^nd).  Chicago students – enter your videos now and make sure you are the generation to lead Chicago into its green future!