“Earth Day” is celebrated worldwide on April 22nd to support environmental conservation efforts. It was first observed in 1970 in the aftermath of significant oil spills in Santa Barbara, USA. Since then, this movement has mobilized over a billion people in more than 192 countries. This year’s annual event is being celebrated with the global theme ‘Planet vs. Plastic’.

In 2016, the United Nations chose April 22nd as the date for the Paris Agreement, which is considered a significant treaty in the history of climate and environmental movements. Leaders from 196 countries came together on that day to adopt the legally binding agreement aimed at combating global warming. Countries are expected to strive under the agreement to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, while greenhouse gas emissions should peak by 2025 and see a 43% reduction by 2030.

How did Earth Day first originate?

On the shores of California, following significant oil spills, Earth Day commenced in America. Senator Gaylord Nelson advocated for energizing student-led anti-war protests alongside emerging public awareness about air and water pollution. He recruited activist Denis Hayes to organize campus teach-ins and broaden the concept’s reach. Both chose April 22 for maximum student participation – a weekday amidst spring break and final exams.

According to Earthday.org, HES eventually formed a national staff of 85 people to promote programs across the entire country. To gain more visibility, they also changed the name of the program to Earth Day.

What is the theme?

“The planet versus plastic unites students, parents, businesses, governments, churches, unions, individuals, and non-governmental organizations in an unwavering commitment to call for an end to plastic for human and planetary health, demanding a 60% reduction in its production. Creating a plastic-free future for plastics and future generations by 2040 is an ultimate goal,” reads a portion of the official Earth Day website.