COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE
Earth Day is observed each year on April 22 and draws attention to a range of issues affecting the environment. It aims to raise awareness in the hope of inspiring change.
According to National Geographic, the first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970. Wisconsin senator Gaylord Nelson was inspired to begin a national celebration uniting the environmental movement after witnessing environmental activism in the 1960s. With the help of Denis Hayes, a graduate student at Harvard University, Nelson organized the first Earth Day. Twenty million people participated in events across the United States and strengthened support for environmental legislation like the Clean Air Act and the Endangered Species Act.
Earth Day was expanded to a global initiative in 1990 under guidance from Denis Hayes. More than 1 billion people in 192 countries now participate each year, joining together to help protect the planet. Awareness continues to be raised each year regarding renewable energy and climate change.
One of the hallmarks of Earth Day celebrations is the planting of trees. Researchers estimate roughly 15 billion trees are cut down each year across the globe. Planting trees on Earth Day is one way people can make a difference. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen and bolster ecosystems for wildlife. Shade trees can reduce reliance on fans and air conditioning systems.
Each year, Earth Day is organized around a central theme. The 2026 theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” emphasizes the role of individuals and communities in driving environmental progress and protecting natural resources.
Everyone can do their part to promote the ideals behind Earth Day. For 56 years, people around the world have advocated for change to benefit the planet and human and animal health, and that fight continues today.