Earth Day 2024: Why It Matters
We take a look at Earth Day and what it's relevance is today
What is Earth Day?
Have you heard of Earth Day? This day observed annually on the 22nd of April, is a global call to action - to honour the planet and promote environmental stewardship.
Earth Day has been a day of action now for over 50 years.
It was started in 1970 in the United States by Senator Gaylord Nelson, whi the first Earth Day. The concept emerged from a rising concern for the environment amid rampant industrial development. It’s inaugural event catalysed widespread environmental activism, leading to significant legislative outcomes such as the establishment of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts.
Today, Earth Day has transcended the USA national borders, engaging over 1 billion people across more than 190 countries, laying claim to be the largest secular observance in the world!
This day unites governments, corporations, and individuals in a common purpose: to reflect on a sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to what it means to live on this planet.
Why is Earth Day Important?
The importance of Earth Day cannot really be overstated, as it emphasises the urgent need to address all environmental issues such as pollution, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and climate change.
Earth Day 2024: This year’s theme
The theme for Earth Day 2024 is Planet vs. Plastics This theme emphasises the need for both economic and environmental investments that lead to sustainable development. It calls on businesses, governments, and citizens to prioritise green spending, innovative solutions, and sustainable practices that ensure the health and wellbeing of the planet for future generations. Thinking Local to have a Global impact.
The Great Global Cleanup | Join a Cleanup (earthday.org)
We have registered the following clean up day on earthday.org - and its the most northerly earthday clean up event in the UK this year. Why not come along?
Date:Saturday 20th April            Area: Inverness
Earth Day: Community Beach Clean – Ardersier Bay
Join us on ‘Keep Scotland Beautiful’ month and help clear up the rubbish blown into the bay after the winter storms. Litter pickers, gloves and bags provided. Please dress appropriately for the weather. Meet at the slipway car park down the lane opposite The Gun Lodge Hotel, Ardersier.
Time: 10:30am – 1pm
Booking: No booking required just come along!
Contact: Â john.orr@highlifehighland.com 07771370959
Earth Day's role in environmental conservation continues to be important, and hold relevance. It not only commemorates achievements in environmental protection in the past, but also mobilises individuals, communities, and governments to further invest in the vitality of our planet for the future.
Observing Earth Day reminds us of the power of collective action and the ongoing efforts needed to maintain the earth's health for future generations. As we approach Earth Day 2024, it becomes a significant moment to reflect on our environmental impact and recommit to making environmentally sound decisions in our daily lives and policies.