Did you ever stop to notice
This crying Earth, these weeping shores?

Earth song – Michael Jackson

Every year on April 22nd, the world comes together to celebrate Earth Day, a special occasion dedicated to reflection, action, and awareness about protecting and preserving our planet. This day, born in 1970, has taken on an increasingly significant meaning in the current context, characterized by ever-pressing environmental challenges.

The origins

Earth Day has its roots in an environmental movement that took hold in the United States in the 1960s and ’70s. In 1969, U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson was inspired to organize a significant event to raise public awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. This event, held on April 22nd, 1970, involved millions of people across the United States, giving rise to the first Earth Day. That historic event in 1970 marked the beginning of a global environmental movement. The participation of millions of people highlighted the urgent need to protect our planet from the threats of pollution and overexploitation of natural resources. In the following years, Earth Day became an annual event, extending its reach internationally. Today, millions of people around the world celebrate this day with events, awareness-raising activities, and actions aimed at promoting environmental sustainability.

The goals 

• Climate change. One of the main challenges we face is climate change, primarily caused by excessive greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. This phenomenon has devastating consequences on the environment, from rising sea levels to desertification, endangering the survival of many animal and plant species and threatening the food and water security of human communities. To address this challenge, global commitment is necessary. Nations must collaborate to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adopt renewable energies, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Companies must take responsibility for reducing their environmental impact by adopting cleaner production practices and investing in green technologies. And we, as individuals, must do our part by reducing our resource consumption, recycling, and adopting a more sustainable lifestyle.

• Biodiversity. Preserving biodiversity is another fundamental goal of Earth Day. The loss of natural habitats, deforestation, and pollution are putting many animal and plant species at risk. Protecting biodiversity is not only an ethical issue but also a necessity for our well-being, as we depend on healthy ecosystems for clean air, clean water, and nutritious food.

• Environmental justice. Furthermore, Earth Day invites us to reflect on the concept of environmental justice. The most vulnerable communities are often the most affected by the devastating effects of pollution and climate change, despite contributing less to the causes of these phenomena. It is imperative to ensure that everyone has access to a healthy and safe environment, regardless of their socioeconomic or geographical status.

In conclusion, Earth Day is an important opportunity to reflect on our relationship with the planet and to commit to protecting it for future generations. Each of us has a role to play in the fight against climate change and in the conservation of biodiversity. With collective commitment and concrete actions, we can work together to build a more sustainable and resilient future for all.