13 Days 'Til the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day: The History of Earth Day

source: https://www.earthday.org/history/

​With Earth Day's 50th coming up on April 22nd, it's important that we look back on what and who started this environmental movement and appreciate those in the past who started to fight for the future. Our future. 

There were multiple environmental issues going on leading up to the first Earth Day in 1970. Massive automobiles released high amounts of leaded gas, which was being consumed by million of Americans. Smoke and sludge began to pollute the environment due to manufacturing and production. This was a new idea at the time; previously, thick air pollution symbolized prosperity for the country and was not recognized as a concern for planet or human health. 

source: https://earthsky.org/earth/this-date-in-science-why-celebrate-earth-day-on-april-22

April 22, 1970 was the day that held the first Earth Day celebration. 20 million Americans, on college campuses and public streets in the cities, protested the ignorance of not taking environmental action, while demanding new habits and practices for keeping the planet healthy. This kickstarted a wave of action as new environmental laws in the United States were being passed.

The first Earth Day resulted in the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts. Soon after, many other countries adopted similar laws and practices. Click here to learn more about the EPA's historical ties with Earth Day.

​According to Earthday.org, Earth Day is now "recognized as the planet's largest civic movement" and continues to be a major influence internationally. Over 190 countries and 1 billion people have participated in taking environmental action each Earth Day. 

This is an original video from Earth Day 1970 Part 1: Intro (CBS News with Walter Cronkite). Earth Day was the result of action by people, who used entrepreneurial thinking to change the way things were done. 

http://earthweek1970.org - Original broadcast of CBS News Special Report with Walter Cronkite about the first Earth Day, 1970. Also known as Earth Week 1970.

Put on your entrepreneurial thinking cap. What are some environmental pollution problems that exist today? What are some things you can do? Be a part of history and celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day! Earthday.org made it possible for everyone to participate right from their mobile device. Click here to learn more about how you can celebrate Earth Day's 50th from home!