Earth Day has been celebrated for many years to highlight the achievements made, and is celebrated each year on April 22 to focus on environmental issues. This event began in 1970, led by Gaylord Nelson, to focus on the increase in environmental damage. Nelson was a senator in Wisconsin and decided to create this event to incorporate it in the national political agenda. This event is recognized worldwide and focuses on preserving the environment. Although its recognition has not been as strong as it once was, many people still take action.
Earth Day quickly gained national attention after its introduction. Around 20 million people came to participate in an earth day protest, which was about 10 percent of the U.S. population. Due to all the attraction, many protests occurred, but also gatherings to help clean up. According to History.com, “By the end of 1970, the first Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of other first-of-their-kind environmental laws.” This explains how much of a major impact government action had as a result of Earth Day. The Environmental Protection Law led not only to raising awareness but also to long-term changes.
The GH Falcon sat down with Nicole Oglodek, a student at Green Level, to see how she viewed Earth Day. She explained how Earth Day was a great time to focus on the environment.” When Earth Day occurs every year, my family and I take time to clean up. Although she feels a lot of people don’t realize how important Earth Day is, she understands that even though it feels like a lot, it will help in the long run.
A Green Hope Science teacher, Mrs. Magee, shared her opinions on Earth Day. She reflected that support for environmental issues was much stronger in 1970 often called the Environmental Decade. She explained how environmental awareness has changed over time and is in its decline, highlighting that “environmental awareness and care has cycled in and out of favor”. However she remains hopeful that this trend will change in the future. “I do feel that the pendulum will swing back in the other direction and we will again embrace sustainable practices.” Even though she said Earth Day awareness has decreased, she still feels that every day is Earth Day and a great time to treat our Earth better.
After speaking with the two individuals, their perspectives were better understood. They both agreed on how Earth Day has gotten forgotten over the years, but still feel it makes an impact, even if it’s only a little percentage of help, it will still make a difference. Many animals are stuck in plastic and pollutants. People are also affected by this because when the air quality is really bad, it can become hard for some to breathe. Overall, Earth day may not have gotten as much attention as it once did, but it is still important for the people who care about it. Although it feels forgotten, it is still important to continue and make a difference.
