Earth Day, on April 22, is one of the largest civic events in the world. Each year, people in many countries take part in cleanups, tree plantings, rallies, school programs and community events to protect the environment. Earth Day reminds us that clean air, clean water and healthy ecosystems are shared resources, and that individual and collective actions can make a real difference.
History of Earth Day
In the 1960s, many Americans grew concerned about pollution, oil spills and pesticides, especially after Rachel Carson's 1962 book 'Silent Spring'. A large oil spill off Santa Barbara, California, in 1969 added to the concern.
U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin proposed a national 'teach-in' on the environment. He recruited Denis Hayes, a young activist, to organize it. The date of April 22 was chosen in part because it fell between spring break and final exams for college students. On April 22, 1970, about 20 million Americans took part in the first Earth Day.
The event helped lead to major environmental laws and the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1970, followed by the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act and Endangered Species Act. In 1990, Earth Day went global, mobilizing about 200 million people in 141 countries. In 2016, the Paris Agreement on climate was signed at the United Nations on Earth Day.
Why Earth Day Matters
Earth Day raises awareness of environmental challenges, such as climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss.
It also shows how ordinary people can push for change, from cleaning up a local park to supporting new policies.
Earth Day also shows the power of collective action. The first Earth Day brought together people across political parties, ages and backgrounds, and helped build public support for environmental laws that still protect air, water and wildlife today. Each year, the day invites people to think about the planet they will leave to future generations.
How to Celebrate Earth Day
- Join a cleanup: pick up litter at a park, beach or neighborhood.
- Plant a tree: add trees or native plants to your yard or community.
- Cut waste: reduce single-use plastics and recycle correctly.
- Save energy: turn off lights and walk, bike or use public transit.
- Learn and share: read about local environmental issues.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, teams can organize a volunteer cleanup, start a recycling or composting program, or hold a 'green ideas' challenge to cut energy and waste. In classrooms, students can study the history of the environmental movement, test water quality, plant seeds or build compost bins. They can also research a local environmental issue and propose solutions. At home, families can plant a garden, take a nature walk with a trash bag, sort recyclables together, or set up a family 'energy patrol' to turn off lights and unplug devices.
Fun Facts About Earth Day
- About 20 million Americans participated in the first Earth Day in 1970.
- The Environmental Protection Agency was created in 1970.
- The Paris Agreement was signed on Earth Day in 2016.
Earth Day FAQs
When is Earth Day?
Earth Day is April 22.
Who started Earth Day?
Senator Gaylord Nelson, with organizer Denis Hayes.
When was the first Earth Day?
April 22, 1970.
How many countries celebrate Earth Day?
Earth Day is observed in more than 190 countries.