Earth Day—Renewable Energy Products We See, Use, and Haul
Ask about our pay increase for 2021!
NTB offers great opportunities for drivers: Apply to drive with NTB here.
Earth Day: Then and Now
Every April 22nd since 1970, Earth Day has marked the anniversary of the modern environmental movement. For the past 51 years, Earth Day has given a voice to an emerging environmental consciousness and provided a global focus on issues including climate action, conservation and restoration, renewable energy, and plastic and pollution.
Before the first Earth Day, many Americans were oblivious to the environmental concerns as to how a polluted planet may affect human health. In 1962, Rachel Carson’s book Silent Spring shed light on the dangers of pesticides called DDT that were polluting waterways and destroying habitats. This book began to grow public awareness. Years later, in January of 1969, the Santa Barbara Oil Spill sparked the public’s attention even more and spurred a call to action. This spill happened in the Santa Barbara Channel in Southern California and was the largest spill to happen at the time. Due to a blow-out, more than three million gallons of oil spilled into the channel and killed over 10,000 seabirds, fish, dolphins, and seals. Though this was a travesty, more activists than ever were mobilized to create change, regulation, and a day to unify groups working toward a healthier world.
Fast forward those 51 years and now millions of people have taken part in Earth Day annually. Events happen all around the world where people celebrate by holding marches, planting trees, and cleaning up their local environments. These past five decades have seen significant improvements when it comes to sustainability.
Views From the Road
One particular form of sustainability our drivers are accustomed to seeing on the road is wind and solar energy farms. NTB operates in the Upper Midwest region and, according to industry reports, the Midwest and Great Plains are the leaders when it comes to wind energy expansion. Fields of wind turbines and solar gardens can be seen while driving and offer a different view compared to the vast fields of corn that come without them. There’s something remarkable about these turbines, like being able to spot them so far in the distance or see the fields of their red lights aglow when nightfall comes.
Not only are they remarkable in that way, but wind energy produces 5.5% of the electricity in America, which is enough to power 21 million homes. Wind has also surpassed hydroelectricity as the country’s largest source of renewable energy.
Incorporating a Sustainable Lifestyle
Not only do NTB drivers see these sorts of wind turbines and solar panel farms, but they haul energy-efficient products to stores. One of our leading partners, Mejier, has a large selection of solar-powered products for at-home use. These include garden lights, calculators, and thermometers. Drivers could utilize some of these products in their own trucks and at home, like this Solar Power Bank to charge off the grid. The use of items like these can promote a more energy-conscious way of life.
Trucking and Sustainability
At NTB, we work to engage in a sustainable lifestyle, too. We have consistently earned SmartWay Partner status, which is a collaborative effort between the Environmental Protection Agency and the freight industry. Together, we design ways to improve energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions, and improve overall energy security. By participating above SmartWay Transport program’s standards, NTB can save money, reduce fuel use, and is recognized as a leader in creating ecologically smart transportation.
Summary
So, this Earth Day, see what events are happening in your area and get involved! The best way to celebrate is to participate. Together, we can work toward a brighter and greener future. Join in on the pride of being an NTB driver, where we strive to be good stewards of the Earth.
Psalm 24:1-2 Of David. A psalm.
The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it,
the world, and all who live in it;
for he founded it on the seas
and established it on the waters.
Ask about our pay increase for 2021!
Celebrate with Us: Apply to drive with NTB
Ride with Pride: Shop NTB gear from mugs to sweatshirts.