Celebrating the planet, raising awareness of the importance and need to preserve and care for natural resources and the sustainability of the Earth, is even more urgent today than in 1970, the year this day was first observed in the United States.
More than 20 million people took to the streets on April 22, 1970, in the United States, for the first celebrations of this day, at an environmental forum promoted by Senate President Gaylord Nelson. The social pressure and impact of these demonstrations led the U.S. government to create the Environmental Protection Agency.
Today, this day is celebrated in more than 190 countries, demonstrating a commitment to protecting and preserving natural resources, the environment, and the sustainability of the Earth, and our own future.
This year, on its 54th anniversary, the Earth Day Network aims to reduce plastic production by 60% by 2040, for the sake of planetary health, with 2024 adopting the theme – Planet vs. Plastics.
The existence of this day serves to raise awareness of the importance and need to preserve natural resources, promoting harmony among all living beings. Every small action counts, and we must all be agents of change in preserving natural resources and
ecosystems.
Facts About World Earth Day
- Since 1970, it is estimated that World Earth Day has mobilized 1 billion people around the world who have participated in various initiatives.
- In 2009, Earth Day was officially renamed by the UN as International Mother Earth Day.
- The Earth Day NGO has created an interactive map where you can find actions taking place around the world, from rallies, cleanups, and other events.
