What better way to celebrate our beautiful home than learn five fascinating facts about Earth Day. From the early history of Earth Day to its various triumphs and challenges – let’s dive in!
Earth Day falls on April 22 of every year and if it feels like we just celebrated Earth Hour it’s because… we did. But really, is one hour plus one day enough time to fully acknowledge this planet that gives us so much? I think you know my answer to that question. Which is why I’ve created an enjoyable – yet informative – post featuring five facts about Earth Day. Just for you!
But first, let me boldly suggest we celebrate Earth Day 365 days a year. If this sounds like a daunting task – relax – it isn’t! It really is about the little things we do every day.
The things that become so ingrained in our routine they no longer are tasks to put effort into. They’re just life. This Earth Day, let’s vow to make caring for our planet something we just do. Every day.So here they are, five facts about Earth Day. Plus five simple ways to integrate the philosophies of this one day into your daily life!
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Earth Day Started in 1970
The first Earth Day, which was celebrated on April 22, 1970, is said to have set in motion the modern environmental movement. Now, more than one billion people participate in Earth Day activities annually. Be one of the billions – in the best way possible and head to earthday.org to find events near you. Maybe you’ll be so inspired you’ll even organize an event yourself!
Every Earth Day, my family and I spend time together in nature. However, I can honestly say I talk about our environmental impact with my children every day of the year. It’s just a part of our regular conversations. Because one of my main goals as a parent is to teach my children about the wonders of our planet so they understand – as a new generation – why it’s worth saving.
Earth Day Was Inspired by War Protesters
Protests against the Vietnam War served as inspiration for the first Earth Day. Earth Day founder Gaylord Nelson, a Wisconsin Senator, wondered if that same public energy could be channeled into awareness about air and water pollution.
And while group protesting is a fantastic tool in the fight against environmental degradation, there are also so many small ways you can protest every day. For example, stop buying harsh chemicals to clean your house with and replace them with natural solutions like vinegar, baking soda and essential oils. And beware of greenwashing – meaning companies and organizations that try to come across as “green,” but don’t back it up.
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Earth Day Has Had Its Fair Share of Challenges
Earth Day has had its fair share of challenges over the past forty-plus years such as disbelief in climate change, an increase in oil lobbyists and a disinterested public. However, over the last decade Earth Day has been re-established as a valid event and is currently the largest secular observance in the world.
Dealing with the issues our planet is facing can sometimes seem overwhelming, which too often leads to inactivity. The birthday presents you made for your parents as a kid and taking care of our planet have something in common. It’s the thought that counts. And before you disagree and say that thinking isn’t enough – we need to act – hear me out. Being mindful of our actions and choosing – every day – to do a little better is what leads to bigger and more impactful actions.
Earth Day: The Largest Secular Observance in the World?
Earth Day is now widely considered the largest secular observance in the world, with over 190+ countries participating. All it takes is a quick visit to the events page on the official Earth Day website to see how many people across the entire globe care deeply about our planet.
And the issues and solutions covered in these events are far reaching. For example, want to learn about how companies making greener choices are actually increasing their profits? Participate in a local cleanup? Join in a peaceful protest? Yup. You can do all these things – and so much more.
Earth Day Isn’t Just About One Day
Worldwide, Earth Day events include teach ins, tree plantings, rallies, flash mobs and just plain old picking up trash. But much like Earth Hour, it isn’t about what you do today – it’s about what you do the rest of the year.
Make a pledge to yourself that going forward you will do ONE THING that’s good for the planet. That’s it. Just one little thing. And if what I’ve suggested above doesn’t work for you, find something that does. Try walking instead of driving. Start recycling. Grow your own vegetables. Shop with reusable bags. Buy earth-friendly products. It doesn’t have to be difficult. It just has to be done. Because our planet, well, it’s kind of worth it.
Do you have any Earth Day plans? What do you do on a daily basis that’s earth-friendly? Do you know any other cool facts about Earth Day that I missed? Leave a comment – both myself and the earth will appreciate it!
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Last Updated on April 8, 2024 (Originally Posted on April 22, 2017)
Need help choosing eco-conscious furniture and decor for your home? That’s what I’m here for!
Former architectural technologist. Current treehugger.
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Does building habitats for birds and bats count? And not partaking in plastic bottles but using a BPA free water jug and refilling it? And composting instead of landfill? And forsaking paper towels for microfibre cloths? Guess we do more than I thought. Thanks for caring for Earth. ?
Thank yourself! I sounds like you do quite a bit too 🙂