The History of Earth Day (and Why It Still Matters)
Apr 15th 2025
After more than 50 years, Earth Day might seem like a routine celebration each April 22. But in a world still facing real environmental threats, its message has never been more urgent.
Earth Day first took root in the 1960s, when pollution was rampant, smog in many cities was atrocious and there were no major laws to protect the environment. U.S. Sen. Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin saw the crisis unfolding. Inspired by the student “teach-ins” to raise awareness about the Vietnam War, Nelson decided to spearhead an effort to publicize the plight of the environment. On April 22, 1970, the first Earth Day took place, mobilizing millions of Americans in protests, clean-ups and educational events. It was a turning point that led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and landmark laws like the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act and Endangered Species Act. Since then, Earth Day has grown into a worldwide event with some 192 countries participating and has expanded into Earth Month.
While we've made progress, Earth Day (and Earth Month) remains as urgent as ever. Here’s why:
Biodiversity is in peril: Species are being lost at an alarming rate due to habitat destruction, pollution and climate change. Earth Day helps to promote conservation efforts, protect species and encourage sustainable farming.
Climate change remains a threat: Earth Day is a crucial reminder that something must be done to reduce emissions, use more clean energy and protect vulnerable ecosystems.
Polution is still a problem: Even today, pollution threatens our oceans, waterways and the air we breathe. Earth Month encourages solutions like conserving resources, improving recycling efforts, using sustainable products and reducing waste.
Local, national and international actions are needed: Earth Day unites people from different backgrounds around a common goal: protecting our world. Whether through local clean-ups, educational efforts or policy changes, it reminds us that small actions add up.
Celebrating Earth Day and Earth Month doesn’t have to mean initiating high-profile efforts. Here are a few simple ways to make a difference:
- Conserve energy by switching energy-efficient appliances and LED bulbs.
- Reduce waste by using reusable bags, bottles and containers.
- Pick up and dispose of trash whenever you see it.
- Plant a tree or start a pollinator-friendly garden.
- Host a clean-up of a local park, beach or neglected area.
- Start composting at home, or through a community composting program.
- Consider adding solar panels to your home or business.
- Support businesses that prioritize sustainability, or if you run a business, offer sustainable products to your customers.
- Promote change by writing to your representatives to prioritize environmental policies.
At Eco-Products, we celebrate Earth Month by deepening our commitment to sustainability through employee education focusing on climate optimism and effective sustainability communication, empowering our team with the tools to make a difference. Each year, we also take action and volunteer in our local community.
Of course, Earth Month isn’t just about 30 days of awareness; it’s about making sustainable choices all year long. Because if we want future generations to inherit a breathable, livable world, the time to act is now.