This Earth Day felt somehow more emotional than past ones. We currently stand at the cultural epicenter of brazen political regression, yet also significant technological progress. As the Trump administration continues its assault on environmental protections, we’re also witnessing a remarkable transformation of the energy infrastructure and an increasing awareness of the environmental costs of human waste, such as plastic contaminating our oceans and the food we eat.

Recently, I've had a number of discussions with friends and strangers alike revolving not just around fears of what climate change might bring, but also appreciation for what our planet does for us. Why focus only on the negative impacts of climate change, when an increased awareness of what Earth does for us is a great motivator too?