Context:
Earth Day is observed every year on April 22 to pledge support for environmental protection.
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- World Earth Day, also known as International Mother Earth Day, marks its 54th anniversary of annual celebrations this year.
- This year, the theme is ‘Planet vs. Plastics’. It highlights the threat plastics pose to the planet and human health. It calls for an end to all plastic waste by demanding a 60% reduction in the production of plastics by the year 2040.
- Earth Day is now globally coordinated by a non-profit organization EARTHDAY.ORG. It was formerly known as Earth Day Network.
Significance of Earth Day
- It aims to build the world’s largest environmental movement to drive transformative change for people and the planet.
- It recognizes our collective responsibility, as outlined in the 1992 Rio Declaration, to promote harmony with nature and achieve a just balance among the economic, social, and environmental needs of present and future generations.
- It reminds the world about the importance of environment conservation and sustainability, encouraging us to come together and take action for a healthier planet and brighter future.
- It raises awareness about protecting our planet, you can engage in various environment-related activities to make the day special.
- It aims to make lifestyle changes that reduce your carbon footprints and educate family and friends on ways to save the environment.
- A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide and methane) that are generated by our actions.
Historical Background
- Earth Day was first observed in 1970 when millions took to the streets to protest against environmental degradation.
- The event was triggered by the 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill and other issues such as smog and polluted rivers
- The Santa Barbara oil spill occurred in the Santa Barbara Channel, near the city of Santa Barbara in Southern California, USA.
- Gaylord Nelson is regarded as the founder of Earth Day.
- In 2009, the United Nations designated Earth Day as International Mother Earth Day.
- The landmark Paris Agreement, which brings almost 200 countries together to set a common target to reduce global grxeen house emissions, was signed on Earth Day 2016.