Earth Day

Satellite view of earth superimposed on crumpled paper.

Satellite view of earth superimposed on crumpled paper, by Corey Matsumoto via WikiMedia Commons

Earth Day is celebrated each year on April 22nd. The brainchild of environmentally-conscious Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin, Earth Day was first observed in 1970. Nelson’s intention was that Earth Day be observed through nationwide “teach-ins” on college campuses. Instead of focusing on the Vietnam War, however, theses teach-ins focused on the threats facing the environment. The 1970 event was celebrated across the country and was wildly successful. Earth Day is now celebrated in more than 175 countries throughout the world.

 

  • Earth Day 2013: Countdown to Earth Day 2013 — Ideas for celebrating Earth Day and for protecting the environment throughout the year from Earth Day Central.
  • Reflections on Earth Day — In this article from the Huffington Post, former Vice President and environmental activist, Al Gore, reflects upon the significance of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring and it’s connection to Earth Day
  • Earth Day — The Earth Day Network Web site includes information on current campaigns and projects, suggestions for earth-friendly actions, and news and information on Earth Day and environmental issues.
  • Earth Day Every Day — Earth Day ideas for kids from Planet Pals
  • Earth Day 2013 Online — Learn about the history of Earth Day and all sorts of Earth Day events at this site, which is a project of Envirolink.