Why Earth Day Matters

Every year, on April 22, we celebrate Earth Day. Sure, we know it’s about celebrating the Earth, but do you know why? Let’s learn about Earth Day together!

The idea to celebrate Earth Day originated with founder and U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson after witnessing the 1969 oil spill in Santa Barbara, California.

Nelson, inspired by the student anti-war movement of the time, realized that merging the energy of those students with public awareness about water and air pollution could push environmental protection into the spotlight.

Nelson worked with Dennis Hayes and Pete McCloskey to build a national staff of around 85 people to promote environmental events on April 22^nd.

On that date in 1970, in an effort to save the environment, 20 million Americans joined together in fighting for a more sustainable way of living.

Since then this national observance has grown tremendously,with 22,000 participants  in 192 countries. According to the Earth Day Network, a non-profit organization  which coordinates Earth Day activities, over 1 billion people are involved annually.

To learn more about additional events in your area, visit www.earthday.org

Let’s make an effort to save our environment on Earth Day and Every Day!

Happy Earth Day!