The idea for the first Earth Day came from a United States senator in 1969. In 1970, the first Earth Day was celebrated and was focused on the United States with millions of people took to the streets to protest environmental degradation. In 1990, Earth Day went global and was celebrated in 141 countries. More countries join afterwards and activities are seen to call for support to environmental protection.
Why is it so important?
Our planet is vulnerable. It is essential for all living species to survive and thrive. But our activities are pushing the planet and the natural system to the edge. As we put more cars onto roads and burn more coal for electricity, we are boosting carbon emissions and bringing about raising global temperatures. Our manufacturing industries and transportation lead to notable air pollution. We are throwing away too much and we produce an enormous amount of plastic waste, threatening the environment and oceans. We are cutting down trees and destroying the shelter and food for animals. And we are relying too much on animal agriculture for food. Earth Day suggests that no one is immune to environmental problems, and everyone should act to bring changes.
What should we do?
It’s never too late to start with our own actions to save the planet — to learn more about the environment, to reflect on our behaviors, and promote behavioral changes. By reducing waste, saving energy, conserving water, taking more plant-based foods to meat, we can take part in numerous activities to make the planet a happier, healthier place to live.
