What is Earth Day and why do we celebrate it?

Every year on April 22, Earth Day is the largest modern environmental movement to raise public consciousness about the state of the planet. Here is everything you need to know about Earth Day and why do we celebrate it.

What is Earth Day?

The first Earth Day was held on April 22 in 1970. It came to provide a voice to this emerging environmental consciousness and putting environmental concerns like air pollution, the effects of pesticides, etc on the front page. Almost 20 million Americans (10% of the population) protested together. Earth Day 2021 will mark the 51st anniversary this year. The theme is “Restore Our Earth.”

Why do we celebrate it?

Due to the impact of Earth Day, it led to the set-up of the Environmental Protection Agency and many important environmental laws being passed like the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act. We celebrate Earth Day to advocate and educate people about environmental conservation, protest climate change and global warming, and encourage volunteering for a better planet.

How can we celebrate it?

Here are some great activities and ideas to celebrate Earth Day while we are keeping social distancing with others and staying at home.

Recycle and repurpose

Try to recycle and repurpose the items in the home to make something and save money, such as repurposing the glass containers as flower vases, pen cases, makeup brush pots, etc.

Plant a garden

You can reuse the containers as plant pots and grow your own vegetables, fruits, or herbs.

Conserve water and electricity

Take a shorter shower or bath to save the water. Switch off or unplug unnecessary lights and unused electronic appliances.