Earth Day

Earth Day History

Earth Day is dedicated to expressing support for environmental protection. The day is intended to raise public awareness about the challenges facing our planet, including climate change, deforestation, pollution, and the loss of biodiversity. It acts as a call to action for everyone - from world leaders and businesses to civil society and individuals - to take responsibility for the health and wellbeing of our planet.

Earth Day was initiated in 1970 in the United States, but its ethos quickly spread across the world, and the United Kingdom was no exception. The observance has a particular resonance in the UK, given the nation's long-standing commitment to environmental issues. The UK has been a world leader in responding to climate change, implementing renewable energy solutions, and promoting sustainable practices. Earth Day in the UK is often the platform for environmental announcements, policy proposals, and public initiatives, reinforcing the UK's dedication to tackling and mitigating environmental concerns.

The UK observes Earth Day with a multitude of activities designed to promote environmental awareness. These range from local clean-up operations and tree-planting efforts to educational campaigns in schools and communities. The observance also sees a range of events, both environmental and cultural, taking place across the country, including lectures, exhibitions, concerts, and nature walks. Earth Day takes place on April 22 each year, uniting the UK with other countries around the world in a global effort to protect and preserve our planet.

Facts about Earth Day

• The theme for Earth Day in 2025 was Our Power, Our Planet.
  The theme in 2024 was Planet vs. Plastics.
  The theme in 2023 was Invest in Our Planet.
  
• During the 2015 UN Conference in Paris, France, participating nations concurred on the need for action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The countries cooperatively pledged to keep global temperature rise below 2C (3.6F). In celebration of Earth Day 2016 on April 22nd, the landmark agreement that testifies to this global commitment was signed at the UN Headquarters in New York by 175 participating nations. The history of Earth Day 2017 dates back to 1970 when it was first celebrated in 1970. It was founded by US Senator Gaylord Nelson to promote ecology and the respect for life on the planet as well as to encourage awareness of the growing problems of air, water, and soil pollution.
• In the United Kingdom, Earth Day was officially launched in 2006 by the environmental organization Friends of the Earth, but it had been celebrated informally for several years prior to that.
• Climate change and biodiversity loss are two of the most pressing environmental issues facing the UK and the world today, and Earth Day events often focus on these topics.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Earth Day

Top things to do in the UK for Earth Day

• Try not to use your car for the entire day. Instead, use public transit, walk, or ride your bicycle.
• Change your traditional incandescent light bulbs to energy saving LED or CFL light bulbs.
• Visit Kew Gardens, London: Earth Day is a great opportunity to explore this beautiful, expansive botanical garden. They often host special events or exhibitions related to sustainability or conservation.
• Participate in National Trust Earth Day Activities: The National Trust, which looks after some of the UK's most stunning natural and historical sites, often hosts Earth Day events including tree planting, bird watching, and nature walks.