Earth Day

Our planet is an amazing place, but it needs our help to thrive! That’s why each year on April 22, more than a billion people celebrate Earth Day to protect the planet from things like pollution and deforestation. By taking part in activities like picking up litter and planting trees, we’re making our world a happier, healthier place to live.

The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970, when a United States senator from Wisconsin organized a national demonstration to raise awareness about environmental issues. Rallies took place across the country and, by the end of the year, the U.S. government had created the Environmental Protection Agency. By 1990, Earth Day was an event celebrated by more than 140 countries around the globe

Many people use the day to do projects that will help the Earth. Some meet to discuss how to limit pollution and how to save endangered animals and plants. Others plant trees, clean up parks and beaches, or set up recycling stations. In some places concerts and organized walks raise money for environmental groups