For the first time, Earth Day, an event aimed at raising public awareness about the environmental issues facing the world, is celebrated.
Rallies, marches, and educational programs saw participation from millions of Americans, including students from numerous colleges and universities.
The concept of Earth Day originated from Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin, an avid environmentalist who sought to unify the grassroots environmental movement and enhance ecological awareness. “The objective was to get a nationwide demonstration of concern for the environment so large that it would shake the political establishment out of its lethargy,” stated Senator Nelson, “and, finally, force this issue permanently onto the national political agenda.”
Environmental awareness indeed saw a boost due to Earth Day, and in July of that same year, the Environmental Protection Agency was created by special executive order to oversee and enforce national pollution laws.
On April 22, 1990, Earth Day marked its 20th anniversary with participation from over 200 million people across 141 countries in the celebrations.
Different groups worldwide celebrate Earth Day on varying days, with the United Nations observing it on the vernal equinox, which typically falls around March 21.
