WASHINGTON –
In recognition of Earth Day, members of the District of Columbia National Guard and D.C. Operations-DCNG teamed for an early Earth Day cleanup at Fort Dupont Park in Washington, D.C., on April 18, 2024. The D.C. National Guard's Environmental Office promotes environmental stewardship and collaborated with the U.S. National Park Service to determine what areas in the District could best utilize volunteer support. Earth Day is recognized worldwide April 22.
"We want to give back to the community and environment," said Sharonda Pruden, Environmental Branch Chief, D.C. Operations-DCNG. "This year's Earth Day theme is 'Planet verses Plastic.' Plastic is a big part of our pollution and we're trying to reduce it. And worldwide there's efforts to reduce plastics by 60% within the next two decades. It's part of the reason why we're seeing a reduction in plastic use—from straws to plastic bags. We're responsible to abide by not only EPA regulations, but that our mission doesn't affect the environment. It's all about sustainability 365 days a year. At the end of the day, I encourage everyone to think about their impact on other people and the environment."