Eugene, OR – April 6, 2025 – As Earth Day approaches on April 22, local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations throughout Lane County are preparing a wide range of events and eco-conscious campaigns aimed at promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.
From river clean-ups to zero-waste giveaways, the Eugene-Springfield area is once again showing why it’s considered one of Oregon’s most environmentally progressive regions.
Local Businesses Go Green for Earth Day 2025
Businesses of all sizes are finding creative ways to integrate Earth Day into their operations this month—some offering green incentives, others organizing hands-on events to engage the community.
🌿 Mountain Rose Herbs
Eugene’s flagship herbal supplier has long been a leader in sustainability. This April, they’re launching a refill station pilot program at their storefront, allowing customers to bring in clean containers and refill bulk teas, oils, and tinctures—helping reduce packaging waste.
🌎 Down to Earth Home & Garden
This locally loved shop is holding a Spring Sustainability Series, including free mini-workshops on composting, water-wise gardening, and pollinator planting. Customers attending events will receive a free packet of native wildflower seeds.
🧼 Pacha Soap at Sundance Natural Foods
All month long, Pacha Soap Co. is running a “Soap for Clean Water” campaign, where a portion of proceeds from each bar sold helps fund clean water initiatives globally. Look for displays at Sundance and other participating local retailers.
Community Clean-Ups and Eco Events
Dozens of organizations are hosting volunteer opportunities, classes, and community events in the lead-up to Earth Day. Whether you’re a solo citizen scientist or looking for a family-friendly way to give back, there’s something for everyone.
🛶 Willamette River Cleanup – April 13
Organized by McKenzie River Trust and local paddling groups, this event invites volunteers to help remove trash and invasive species from the banks of the Willamette. Participants can join by land or water.
🚮 Eugene Park Clean-Up Weekend – April 19–21
In collaboration with City of Eugene Parks and Open Space, neighborhoods across the city will host local clean-up stations. Trash bags, gloves, and grabbers will be provided. Groups and families welcome!
🌱 Youth Earth Day Expo – April 20
Taking place at the Lane Events Center, this youth-focused expo showcases school sustainability projects, local green startups, and hands-on science exhibits. Sponsored by local education partners and nonprofits, the event also features live music and eco-art contests.
Sustainability in Business: More Than a Trend
Beyond single-day events, many Lane County businesses are making long-term commitments to sustainable practices. Restaurants are reducing single-use plastic, retailers are embracing carbon offsets for deliveries, and service providers are going paperless.
According to GreenLane Sustainable Business Network, membership has doubled in the last year, with new companies joining monthly to access training, tools, and a shared mission of responsible growth.
“Consumers are looking for values-based businesses,” says Jenna Raynor, GreenLane’s outreach coordinator. “Earth Day is a great time to start, but our local companies are proving that sustainability isn’t seasonal—it’s the future.”
How You Can Participate
Here are a few easy ways to support local and go green this month:
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Shop from local retailers offering Earth Day promotions
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Join a clean-up or volunteer drive
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Bring your own bags, containers, or utensils when shopping or dining
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Follow and support eco-friendly businesses on social media
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Attend an Earth Day event and bring a friend
Thriving Oregon’s Take
We’re proud to see so many Lane County businesses and residents showing up for the planet. Whether you’re trying composting for the first time or shopping from a refill station, your actions contribute to a larger movement—one rooted in community, care, and sustainability.
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