It’s Vermont’s own tradition. Green Up Day is a one-of-a-kind, statewide event that’s been bringing Vermonters together every first Saturday in May since 1970. It’s part civic duty, part community celebration, and entirely local. As an organization committed to the well-being of Vermont communities, we believe Green Up Day is about more than just picking up roadside litter. It’s about public health.
Here’s why we’re proud to support it:
- Cleaner Communities = Healthier Vermonters: Litter isn’t just unsightly—it poses real risks to public health. From polluting waterways to creating hazards for pedestrians and children, cleaning up our neighborhoods makes them safer and more livable for everyone.
- Addressing Syringe Litter Safely: In many Vermont cities and towns, improperly discarded syringes are an unfortunate reality. Green Up Day is a critical opportunity to raise awareness and promote safe needle disposal practices. If you encounter a syringe while greening up, do not pick it up with bare hands—contact local authorities or a designated disposal team to handle it properly. The Vermont Department of Health offers syringe disposal guidance here: https://www.healthvermont.gov/alcohol-drugs/recovery/safe-disposal
- It Encourages Physical Activity and Mental Well-being
Getting outside, moving your body, and connecting with others are all proven ways to boost both physical and mental health. Green Up Day is a great excuse to do all three—together. - Education Meets Action
Especially for youth, Green Up Day is a hands-on lesson in how our environment affects our health. It’s community-based education at its best—one that aligns with VT AHEC’s place-based approach to learning and service. - It Builds Resilient, Connected Communities
Social connection is a powerful driver of health. Green Up Day brings people together to care for shared spaces and reminds us we’re all part of something bigger—neighbors helping neighbors, for the common good.
This Green Up Day (May 3, 2025), we’re reminded that public health doesn’t start in hospitals—it starts in our streets, sidewalks, and shared spaces. Let’s take care of them, together.