By Jenna Mattern 

As winter recedes and spring unfolds, planet Earth is blossoming with colorful flowers, plentiful trees, and a beaming sun. For many, this often acts as a reminder to appreciate the beauty of our Earth and the nature that surrounds us. 

And for those looking to celebrate even further, Earth Day on April 22nd offers the perfect opportunity to honor the planet.

What is Earth Day?

Earth Day is celebrated annually on April 22nd. It is a reminder to appreciate the planet’s landscapes, ecosystems, and beings. However, it’s much more than that.

According to the official site for Earth Day, which has over 75,000 partners, more than 1 billion individuals have mobilized in honor of the holiday.  Transformational change takes place, with activists taking the day to hold organizations accountable for their carbon footprint. Sustainability is addressed on both an individual and governmental level. 

Why was Earth Day created? 

Earth Day was created and first celebrated in 1970 by Senator Gaylord Nelson. Environmental biology professor at Loyola University Maryland, Dr. Brock Couch, explains the early goals of Earth Day. 

“It was an environmental movement to draw attention to the need for regulation of pollution,” says Couch. 

He explains that the movement made real change, especially in terms of political decisions. This includes the creation of the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, and the Environmental Protection Agency.

Today, Earth Day is a worldwide movement, spanning all generations and backgrounds. 

How can I celebrate Earth Day? 

On an individual level, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Earth Day. Some include volunteering, supporting sustainable brands, spreading awareness about environmentalism, writing to local leaders, and reducing personal waste. Every action helps, whether it be big or small.  

“Celebrating Earth Day reminds us all that we are connected and bear a responsibility to care of the Earth to ensure we, humans, will still have a place to call home,” says Dr. Couch.

“Hope is not lost.”