Surely, you’ve heard of Earth Day—especially when you open Instagram on April 22nd and see 200 pictures of the sky on people’s feeds. And it’s great that we can appreciate the Earth, but what actually is Earth day?
what is earth day?
Earth Day first became a national “day” in 1970 to bring attention to environmental problems. Since then, it has blossomed into an annual event to raise awareness and promote action for environmental protection. Essentially, it is a day to remind us that we need to take responsibility for our planet. Every year, there are groups and individuals that organize widespread clean-up opportunities to better our environment for us and for future generations.
why is it so important, specifically NOW?
Currently, there are several pressing environmental challenges that not only affect us, but will continue to affect our communities, economies, and future generations. Below is a brief summary of many of the environmental challenges our society currently faces, and how proposed habits surrounding Earth Day can help.
- Climate change: The impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly visible. Earth Day highlights the global action needed to reduce carbon emissions and restore our planet’s health.
- Biodiversity loss: Our planet’s biodiversity is under threat, and many species face extinction due to human activities. Earth Day reminds us to preserve wildlife and organisms that allow us to flourish on this planet.
- Pollution + waste management: We are facing severe air and water pollution problems, along high rates of plastic waste dumping and soil contamination. Earth Day raises awareness about the sources and consequences of pollution and waste.
- Resource depletion: The overuse and unsustainable consumption of natural resources are significant threats to the health of our planet. Earth Day helps to promote awareness about alternatives to fossil fuel use and single-use items.
What can we do?
Naturally, humans are different – our beliefs and practices differ and we come from various walks of life. But above all, we are collectively responsible for the health of our Earth. We are just visitors passing through this place we call home, which has existed long before us and will continue to exist long after us. There are many ways we can protect our planet, including reducing our waste, recycling, adopting sustainable practices, and so much more.
Earth Day is nearing on April 22nd. There is no better opportunity to educate ourselves and advocate for change than now.