April 22Environment

Earth Day

Name: Earth Day
Start: 2027-04-22
End: 2027-04-22

One planet. One chance. Protect what we love.

ABOUT

Earth Day is observed annually on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. Established in 1970, it has grown into the largest civic event on Earth, with more than one billion people in over 193 countries participating through activities ranging from tree planting and beach clean-ups to government lobbying for clean-energy legislation and climate action. Each year, Earth Day Network — the organisation that coordinates global efforts — sets a campaign theme focused on a pressing environmental issue, from plastic pollution to biodiversity loss and climate finance. Earth Day also serves as a critical platform for young climate advocates, who in recent years have become the most visible force demanding systemic change from governments and corporations. The day has produced concrete results: the first Earth Day in 1970 directly led to the creation of the US Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of landmark environmental legislation. In 2026, the campaign continues to push for a rapid transition away from fossil fuels and for binding international commitments on nature restoration. Whether you volunteer for a local restoration project, attend a rally, or simply reduce your single-use plastic consumption for the day, Earth Day invites everyone to participate. The message is simple: every individual action, multiplied across billions of people, creates measurable change.

HISTORY

Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin proposed a national day for the environment after witnessing the devastation of the 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill. On April 22, 1970, 20 million Americans participated in the first Earth Day, leading to the creation of the US Environmental Protection Agency and landmark legislation including the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act. Earth Day went global in 1990 with 200 million participants in 141 countries.

WHERE IT'S OBSERVED

Global — 193 countries

CULTURAL CONTEXT

US United States

Earth Day was born in the US in 1970 and remains a major civic event. It directly led to the EPA, Clean Air Act, and Clean Water Act. Annual community clean-ups, legislative advocacy, and campus events define the day.

KR South Korea

South Korea marks Earth Day with national campaigns on waste reduction and recycling. The country operates one of the world's most advanced recycling systems, and Earth Day aligns with Korea's 2050 Carbon Neutrality commitment.

JP Japan

Japan observes Earth Day with city events and special emphasis on mottainai — a cultural concept expressing regret over waste. Zero-waste living, furoshiki cloth wrapping, and local farmers' markets are central activities.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

01Plant a tree or tend a garden
02Join a local litter pick or beach clean
03Switch to reusable bags, bottles, and containers
04Calculate and commit to reducing your carbon footprint

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is Earth Day?+

Earth Day is observed annually on April 22. The date is fixed each year — April 22 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.

What is Earth Day?+

Is Earth Day a public holiday?+

Earth Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.

How can I participate in Earth Day?+

Plant a tree or tend a garden Join a local litter pick or beach clean Switch to reusable bags, bottles, and containers These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.

Which countries observe Earth Day?+

Global — 193 countries.