What day is Earth Day?

Earth Day, a global event for environmental awareness, is held on April 22 every year to highlight the importance of protecting the environment and the incredible beauty and diversity of life.

To demonstrate support for environmental protection, the event has been recognised in the US on April 22 since 1970 and is now marked around the world.

Millions of people from 193 countries worldwide every year mark Earth Day and celebrate the environmental movement.

Who founded Earth Day?

US senator Gaylord Nelson, also former and Wisconsin governor, is the founder of the Earth Day celebration.

He started the event on April 22 in 1970, when millions joined the events across 190 countries. However, the Day played a vital role in creating the EPA and important environmental laws.

Climate action and plastic reduction are among the themes. Local efforts and corporate involvement are increasing, as climate change remains a big challenge.

During his tenure as governor from 1959 to 1963, Nelson established himself as Wisconsin’s conservation leader and was elected to the US Senate in 1962 and served for three years.

According to Gaylord Nelson’s daughter, Tia Nelson, her father was passionate about environmental issues, but few of his colleagues were interested.

She also said her father had been struggling for years to find a solution to the conservation issue.

Nelson visited the greatest oil spill in US history 1969, which occurred off the coast of Santa Barbara, California. His defining moment came after the visit.

The senator suggested designating April 22, 1970, as a national day of environmental education. The date was picked purposefully to minimise clashes with college examinations and spring breaks, allowing for maximum student involvement.