Earth Day is like a big thank you to our planet for everything it provides, reminding us all to take care of it. It is celebrated annually, on April 22 in the U.S. and around the world either on the same day or when spring starts kicking in. Earth Day offers a chance to learn about and engage with environmental issues that directly impact our future. By participating in Earth Day activities, people can become advocates for positive change and contribute to building a more sustainable world for themselves and future generations. Earth Day provides an opportunity for all to connect with their communities, learn about environmental conservation, and take action to protect the planet.
Sources: Earth Day Movement, National Geographic
Earth Day started in the late 1960s in the U.S. due to worries about pollution and deforestation, leading to the first Earth Day on April 22, 1970, organized by Senator Gaylord Nelson.
Senator Gaylord Nelson teamed up with activist Denis Hayes to organize campus events and spread the word about Earth Day, choosing April 22 for its convenience between Spring Break and Final Exams to get more students involved. With a team of 85, Hayes brought together various groups, renaming the event Earth Day, which grabbed headlines and got 20 million Americans—10% of the U.S. population—to hit the streets, parks, and auditoriums, protesting the harmful effects of industrial development on our health and environment.
Earth Day has grown into a global movement, with millions worldwide joining in tree planting, clean-ups, education, and advocacy efforts. This movement brings together people, communities, governments, and organizations to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability.
Sources: Earth Day Movement, History.com
News Websites: Websites like BBC News, CNN, The Guardian, and National Geographic often cover environmental news and provide updates on Earth Day events and initiatives. For example, BBC offers a Science & Environment page dedicated to coverage of environmental news, including developments related to Earth Day, sustainability initiatives, climate change, and global efforts to address environmental challenges.
Environmental Organizations: Websites of environmental organizations such as Earth Day Network, World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and Sierra Club frequently publish news articles and updates related to Earth Day activities and environmental campaigns.
Social Media: Following hashtags like #EarthDay, #ClimateAction, and #Sustainability on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram can provide real-time updates and news articles on Earth Day-related topics.
Government Agencies: Websites of government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States or the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) in the UK often publish news releases and updates on Earth Day initiatives and environmental policies.
Jamie Margolin (2001—Present) is an American climate activist and co-founder of the youth-led organization Zero Hour, advocating for environmental and social justice.
Chico Mendes (1944—1988) was a Brazilian environmentalist who fought against deforestation and advocated for the rights of Amazonian forest communities, ultimately co-founding the National Council of Rubber Tappers before his assassination in 1988.
Vanessa Nakate (1996—Present) is a Ugandan climate activist advocating for climate justice and raising awareness about the impacts of climate change on Africa.
Xiye Bastida (2002—Present) is a Mexican-Chilean climate activist and organizer with a focus on indigenous rights and climate justice.
Jacques Cousteau (1910—1997) was an oceanographer, filmmaker, and advocate for marine conservation and exploration.
Isra Hirsi (2003—Present) is an American climate activist and co-founder of the youth-led organization US Youth Climate Strike, working to address climate change and environmental racism.
Rachel Carson (1907—1964) was the author of "Silent Spring," credited with sparking the modern environmental movement.
Dr. Robert Bullard (1946—Present) is an American scholar and activist known as the "father of environmental justice" for his pioneering work on the intersection of environmentalism and social justice, particularly in marginalized communities.
Wangari Maathai (1940—2011) was the founder of the Green Belt Movement, known for her efforts in tree planting and women's rights.
John Muir (1838—1914) was a naturalist and conservationist, instrumental in the establishment of several national parks in the United States.
Known for her climate activism, Greta Thunberg (2003—Present) gained international recognition for her school strike for climate movement, urging governments to take urgent action on climate change.
Gaylord Nelson (1916—2005) founded Earth Day, inspiring millions of people to mobilize for environmental awareness and action, leading to significant legislative and societal changes in environmental protection.
"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better."
—Albert Einstein
Friday, April 5th at 9:00am - 5:00pm | Northwest Campus - Outside of NW05 by the North Parking Lot
Saturday, April 20th at 8:00am | Northwest Campus - Marine Creek Nature Discover Center
Register for the event here - registration is free for students, faculty, and staff.
Saturday, April 20th at 9:30am | Northwest Campus
Register for the event here - registration is free for students, faculty, and staff.
Monday, April 22 at 11:00am - 1:00pm | Northwest Campus - NW01, Lobby
Monday, April 22 at 11:00am - 1:00pm | Trinity River Campus - Main Street
Spend time outdoors appreciating the natural world. Take a hike, visit a nearby nature reserve, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll in a local park to connect with nature and recharge.
Take the opportunity to declutter your space and properly recycle or donate items you no longer need. Opt for reusable alternatives to single-use plastics, such as water bottles, shopping bags, and containers.
Make a conscious effort to reduce your energy consumption by turning off lights, unplugging electronics, and using energy-efficient appliances. Consider using natural light during the day and adjusting your thermostat to save energy.
Whether in your backyard, a local park, or through a community tree-planting event, planting trees helps combat climate change, improve air quality, and provide habitat for wildlife.
Join a local cleanup event or organize one with friends and family to pick up litter in your community. Cleaning up parks, beaches, and streets helps keep our environment clean and protects wildlife.
Take the time to educate yourself and others about environmental issues, climate change, and the importance of conservation. Watch documentaries, read books and articles, and share what you learn with friends and family.
Be mindful of your water usage by fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, and turning off the tap when brushing your teeth or washing dishes. Collect rainwater for watering plants and gardens.
Grow your own fruits, vegetables, or herbs at home or participate in a community garden. Gardening promotes sustainability, reduces food miles, and provides fresh, nutritious produce.
Engage with like-minded individuals and organizations working towards environmental conservation. Join online forums, participate in community events, and collaborate on projects to make a collective impact.
Choose to support businesses that prioritize sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. Look for eco-friendly products, locally sourced goods, and companies committed to reducing their carbon footprint.
The Tarrant County College District Libraries are pleased to provide a wide assortment of digital displays and online exhibits designed to educate, inform, entertain, and engage our entire community, and to help support the learning experience outside of the traditional classroom environment. To view more of these web-based displays, visit our Digital Display Archive page.