Today is the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, and for many of us, without access to beaches and parks, the celebration will occur indoors behind our computer screens. Talk about ironic.

But nature is still out there (hopefully enjoying a break from all our fossil fuel activities), and we still want to celebrate the planet and how to protect it. We’ve assembled a collection of stories and photos about our precious environment, from the threats we face to the natural wonders we cherish in Southwest Florida. And if you want to do more, click here for 24 hours of action to save the planet. As the organizers remind us, “Earth day is every day, and anywhere you are.”

In This Feature:

New College Economist Says a Massive 'Green Stimulus' Could Boost the Economy

'It has never been cheaper to invest in the green economy we need,' says Mark Paul.

04/21/2020 By Cooper Levey-Baker

See the Winning Photos and Finalists From Our Earth Day Photo Contest

Congratulations to all our winners.

04/01/2020

'We're Going Backwards': A Climate Change Expert Sounds the Alarm

On the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, we asked one of the authors of a major climate change report for an update on how we're doing.

04/21/2020 By Megan McDonald

11 Wild Animals You'll Find in Southwest Florida

From bobcats to otters, here's a sampling of the wildlife you might run into in Southwest Florida.

04/05/2016 Illustrations by Rob Jones

Sarasota Teens Have Become Leaders in the Fight to Slow Climate Change

Sarasota Students 4 Climate organizes 'climate strike' protests in downtown Sarasota.

04/21/2020 By Cooper Levey-Baker

Five Great Kayak Trips

A paddle pro shares best places to go. (Just be sure to call first.)

03/28/2018 By Ilene Denton

Has a Longboat Key Retiree Solved the Puzzle of Red Tide?

The effects of red tide and how we might mitigate it remain as relevant as ever.

04/30/2019 By Pam Daniel

Curt Hemmel Runs Florida’s Largest Clam Hatchery

Hemmel is the "Pied Piper of clams."

04/03/2019 By Isaac Eger

A Venice Beautification Project Helps Fight Climate Change

When completed, the new Venice Urban Forest will cover nearly 1.8 miles and provide shelter for insects, birds and other animals.

12/02/2019 By Cooper Levey-Baker

10 Types of Birds You'll See in Sarasota

Our region is a bird lover's paradise.

08/29/2018 By Kay Kipling

Sarasota County is Livestreaming Sunsets Tuesdays and Fridays

‘Almost like being there in person, except for the sand in between your toes.’

04/07/2020 By Ilene Denton