Earth Day, marked every year on April 22, returns in 2025 with the theme “Our Power, Our Planet,” highlighting the global need to accelerate the shift to clean energy.
First celebrated in 1970, the annual observance now spans more than 190 countries and involves over a billion people in a shared commitment to protect the environment.
What Is 'Earth Day' and why is it celebrated?
Earth Day is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness and promoting action for environmental protection. It draws attention to urgent issues like climate change, pollution, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.
From school programmes to international summits, the day motivates individuals, communities, and governments to engage in activities such as tree planting, reducing waste, and supporting clean energy.
The celebration is not just symbolic — it is a reminder that sustainable choices today shape the planet’s future.
In recent years, Earth Day has evolved into a catalyst for policy changes and green innovation around the world.
The history behind Earth Day
The idea for Earth Day emerged in 1970 when US Senator Gaylord Nelson, alarmed by rising pollution and environmental degradation, called for a nationwide “teach-in” on environmental issues.
On April 22 of that year, millions of Americans took to the streets to demand stronger environmental protections.
The success of this grassroots movement laid the foundation for global environmental activism, eventually leading to the annual Earth Day we know today.
Why Earth Day matters
As the climate crisis deepens, the significance of Earth Day has only increased.
Extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and diminishing wildlife habitats underscore the urgent need for collective action.
Earth Day serves as an opportunity for individuals and organisations to reaffirm their commitment to a more sustainable world.
It also encourages practical efforts — from community clean-ups and educational workshops to energy conservation and waste reduction initiatives — all aimed at protecting natural resources for future generations.
Earth Day 2025 theme: “Our Power, Our Planet”
This year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” emphasises the critical role of renewable energy in securing a sustainable future.
The campaign urges governments, businesses, and individuals to accelerate the global transition from fossil fuels to cleaner alternatives like solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, and tidal energy.
Earth Day 2025 is not just a call to raise awareness — it’s a push for tangible change.
With 2030 climate targets approaching, the focus is on boosting clean electricity production and lowering global carbon emissions.
From local tree-planting drives to international conferences, this 55th anniversary of Earth Day is a unified demand for climate justice, sustainable development, and a planet that thrives for generations to come.
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