5 Facts You Need to Know About Earth Day
Ever year when April 22nd rolls around, the world throws a big party for one thing we all share in common—our planet! It’s called Earth Day, and while you’ve probably heard of it, how much do you actually know? It doesn’t matter if you’re an Earth Day expert or a brand new arrival to our beautiful planet. After reading this blog post, you’ll have all the facts you need to throw a great Earth Day celebration!
1. What is Earth Day, exactly?
While it’s not a federal holiday, it’s recognized on the same day every year—April 22nd. The goal of Earth Day is to celebrate the planet and raise awareness about the need to protect and respect it. Earth Day isn’t just an American holiday, either—it’s celebrated all over the world!
2. Who created Earth Day?
U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson originally came up with the idea for a national day to focus on the environment. In 1969 he, like many Americans, witnessed the ravages of the 1969 oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. Inspired by the student anti-war movement, he realized that if he could combine that energy with a public understanding of air and water pollution, it would force environmental protection onto the national political agenda. And he was right!
3. When was the first Earth Day?
The first Earth Day took place on April 22nd, 1970, and it’s been celebrated every year since. This year will be 46th anniversary of Earth Day! Better start planning for the 50th celebration in 2020…
4. What has Earth Day accomplished?
A lot! The Environmental Protection Agency was founded in December 1970, just 8 months after the first Earth Day. Earth Day has also helped pass the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act. Not only that, but Earth Day has inspired countless people to spend a day thinking about the planet and how they can make sure they leave it in good shape for their children and grandchildren. After all, we only have one planet! We need to treat it right.
5. How can you celebrate Earth Day?
There are many ways to celebrate Earth Day, and many resources to turn to for ideas and inspiration. For example:
- The official Earth Day Network is accepted pledges from people committed to performing “Acts of Green.”
- For quick and easy ideas, check out this post by Mind Body Green: “30 Simple Ways to Make Your Life a Little Greener.”
- And of course, don’t miss our post for last year’s holiday, titled “5 Fun Ways to Celebrate Earth Day.”
We hope this blog post helps you celebrate our planet year round! For more tips on living a greener life, make sure to like Carolina Fibre Corporation on Facebook. Happy Earth Day!