This year marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day! Each year on April 22nd, people all over the world come together to find new ways to address environmental threats from climate change to over-use of single-use plastics, deforestation, and more.
Here are some fun facts about Earth Day that you may not have known!
1. Founded in 1970
Gaylord Nelson, a senator from Wisconsin was the first to begin to raise public awareness surrounding environmental concerns. With the anti-war movement in full swing, Gaylord Nelson wanted to frame Earth day, not as a fight, but a way to open a healthy and productive conversation.
2. The 22nd Was Chosen for Maximum Student Involvement
Gaylord Nelson saw how passionate students were about the anti-war movement and he knew he needed that same passion and drive to move his mission forward. April 22nd was chosen as the date for Earth Day because it fell between Spring Break and final exams. Thus, giving students the opportunity for maximum involvement.
3. 10% of The Country’s Population at the Time Took Part
Nearly 20 million Americans took part in the very first Earth Day demonstrations back in 1970! Today, Earth Day is now observed in 192 countries!
4. The EPA was Founded that Same Year
Thanks to the first Earth Day, Congress authorized the creation of the US Environmental Protection Agency. Today, the EPA helps protect our air, water, and endangered species.
5. Earth Day Inspired Many of the Clean Acts We Know Today
The 1970 Earth day inspired Congress to pass the Clean Air, Clean Water and Endangered Species Act. Thanks to these actions, we are still able to enjoy nature’s beauty in all its glory.
6. Earth Day Has a Theme
“But I thought Earth Day was the theme?” Sort of! But each year, Earth Day carries a theme to help move conversations forward into actions. The theme for 2020 is Climate Action.
7. 1 Billion People Celebrate
Yes, you read that right! Around 1 billion people all over the world take part in Earth day festivities.
8. On Earth Day in 2011 28 Million Trees were Planted
In the “Plant Trees Not Bombs” initiative people planted 28 million trees in Afghanistan to promote Earth Day and a more peaceful planet.
Doing Our Part
EcoPro’s number 1 mission has been to create a useful product that helps to promote more sustainable living. By creating a product that reduces the use of water, electricity, and paper from trees, we are helping to create a better world. Additionally, for every purchase you make, we donate 1% of the total to www.water.org; an organization that is committed to bringing access to clean water to people all over the world. Learn more about EcoPro pillow covers and our mission here.