U.S. Earth Day
About U.S. Earth Day
Date When Celebrated: U.S. Earth Day is always observed on April 22
U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson, the “Father of Earth Day”, initiated and promoted eco-friendly environmental actions and activities beginning in 1962. He convinced then President John F. Kennedy to tour the nation in support of environmental concerns. This initial effort did not spark national concern at a political level to effect change.
But Senator Nelson continued his pursuit of increased environmental concern and action. He proposed a National Earth Day in 1970. It was to be the first nationwide environmental protest “to shake up the political establishment and force this issue onto the national agenda”. On April 22, 1970, the timing was right and the first Earth Day protest received astounding support.
On that first Earth Day, an estimated 20 million Americans took to the street in support of the environment and in protest of harmful environmental practices. Never mind that “protests” were in vogue at the time. This effort produced a lasting impact on the environment and brought about greater awareness that our planet had limited resources and that our ecosystem was self-contained and finite. The things we are putting in the air, water, and earth were impacting us.
Did you know? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was formed as a direct result of the first Earth Day in 1970.
Important Note: The Earth Day celebrated in the U.S. is different from yet related to International Earth Day.
How to Celebrate U.S. Earth Day
Planet Earth is our home. It’s the only home we have. Therefore, it is imperative that we protect its health and the planet’s resources in any and every way that we can.
Here are some ways that you can make a difference:
- First and foremost, do what you can to minimize and reverse global warming.
- Reduce your carbon footprint.
- Promote earth-friendly, carbon-free energy resources.
- Get involved with activities and organizations to help our environment.
- Be environmentally conscious.
- Reduce, reuse and recycle wherever possible. Home composting is a great way to start.
Today's Deep Thought
“Try to leave the Earth a better place than it was when you arrived.” – – Sidney Sheldon
Other Links
Organic Gardening is also a way to celebrate Earth Day. The chemicals used in gardens and farmlands bring harmful affect on the water and soil and seep into the food you eat. Learn how to garden more organically.
More About Today
What happened on this Day? This Day in History
Recipe of the Day: French Fried Onion Rings in Beer Batter
Flower of the Day: Rafflesia
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