Earth Day 2024 is just around the corner. While we all should strive to consider the Earth in our everyday choices, Earth Day serves as a reminder to be conscientious about the products we use and the waste we produce, and to keep sustainability in mind when we make choices. From sustainable cities to low-impact travel companies, we do have more ways to be mindful of the planet. Even NYC restaurants and bars are aiming to be more sustainable. This Earth Day you can participate in an Earth Day event near you, and learn about how you can help protect the planet and combat climate change.
What is Earth Day?
Earth Day is held each year on April 22 to raise awareness of environmental issues and promote eco-friendly practices. It was first held in 1970 in the U.S., and has since grown to include a range of events around the world.
Why is Earth Day on April 22?
Earth Day was first proposed to be held on March 21, 1970—the first day of Spring. It was later changed to April 22, a date between colleges’ spring break and final exams, so that it could be held as a “teach-in” to focus on environmental concerns.
What is the Earth Day theme for 2024?
Each year, Earth Day has a theme that focuses on a particular environmental concern. The theme for Earth Day 2024 is Planet vs. Plastics. The theme aims to raise awareness of plastic pollution, reduce single-use plastic consumption, demand an end to fast-fashion, invest in technologies that can reduce plastic use and demand a 60% reduction in the production of plastics by 2024.
When was Earth Day first celebrated in the United States?
Earth Day was first celebrated in the U.S. in 1970. Gaylord Nelson, a Wisconsin senator, and John McConnell, a San Francisco activist, encouraged Americans to join a grassroots demonstration to raise awareness about air pollution, pesticides and toxic drinking water. More than 20 million Americans participated in rallies around the country. As a result, the U.S. government created the Environmental Protection Agency by the end of the year and followed up with laws like the Endangered Species Act, the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act.
How many countries celebrate Earth Day?
To date, more than 190 countries around the world celebrate Earth Day.