Earth Day Celebrations Around the Globe

Be Part of Earth Day Global Celebrations

Earth Day is celebrated around the world on April 22. This is an important day that raises awareness about the environment and the global commitment to make the planet better. Understanding how this day was established and how it helps connect people across the globe in a shared mission is key to celebrating this day. After all, this home belongs to all of us, and we should strive to take care of it to create a healthy and sustainable future.

History of Earth Day

The first Earth Day celebration occurred on March 21, 1970, which was the first day of spring that year. It was proposed by John McConnell, a newspaper publisher who proposed the idea at a UNESCO Conference on the Environment the year before. He suggested that the holiday be celebrated every year as a reminder of everyone’s responsibility to help protect the environment. The following year the United Nations Secretary-General at the time signed a proclamation written by McConnell that the United Nations would celebrate this holiday each year on the first day of spring

Another environmental activist and United States Senator, Gaylord Nelson organized an event on April 22, 1970, to show other politicians the wide support for environmental issues. The event was successful and led to Earth Day celebrations across thousands of colleges, universities, schools, and communities, making it the second Earth Day celebration.

Earth Day Celebrations Around the World

Earth Day is celebrated around the world in different ways, but with the overall theme of creating awareness and educating people about preserving our resources.   Here are some of the Earth Day celebrations include the following:

United States

In the United States, Earth Day celebrations have included rallies and teach-ins, including in Washington, D.C. Scientists and civic organizers provide training sessions and others encourage marches. New York has had pop-up shops that feature companies that support sustainability. Many other cities establish separate, local events.

Denmark

Denmark celebrates Earth Day United at the Christiansborg Castle Square in Copenhagen, which includes a celebration of drum-playing pointed at the four corners of the world. The group then participates in the March for Science, which is a march that seeks to hold the elected officials accountable for greener initiatives.

Japan

Tokyo celebrates an annual two-day celebration of Earth Day in Yoyogi Park where approximately 100,000 visitors are expected to participate in family activities and learn about companies that encourage sustainability.

Great Britain

London features an Earth Day celebration, sponsored by a group of activists and musicians. The event raises funds for British charities and groups fighting climate change.

Spain

Granada, Spain holds a 24-hour Global Unity and Regeneration Gathering, which includes presentations and workshops on helping the environment.

India

India has a variety of Earth Day activities and encourages participants to dress in green. Also, the country puts on events that focus exclusively on protecting the Asian elephant, an endangered species.

Switzerland

The International School of Geneva hosts a green sale in which they raise funds to plant trees on school grounds throughout the area. At this event, they play recycling games and supply environmentally-friendly arts and crafts.

Canada

Several cities throughout Canada, including Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa and Amherst participate in educational talks, activities and parades.

Australia

Sydney hosts four different nature walks with experts, bike giveaways and storytelling.

Philippines

The Philippines features marathons as part of Earth Day Celebrations, which include 5K, 10K, 21K and 42K options.

South Africa

South Africa hosts Earth Expo, which presents educational forums on sustainable nutrition, technology, entrepreneurship, and fashion.

Moldova

Gutta-Club in Chisinӑu hosts Earth Day activities in 30 villages, including tree planting, clean-ups and building nesting boxes for birds.

Importance of Celebrating Earth Day

Celebrating Earth Day promotes the understanding of important environmental issues and shows that you are part of this global mission. As a result, celebrations focus on thinking globally and acting locally, such as planting trees, cleaning up water sources or helping in a community garden. For a successful Earth Day celebration, it is vital to spread awareness. Translating flyers and educational materials can help further expand the reach of your event. To find out how you can be part of this important celebration, search for Earth Day celebrations near you.