Sometimes, the efforts and passions of one individual can create significant change that is felt for generations into the future. There have been many incredible people in our history who have poured their hearts and talents into bringing cutting-edge inventions to the marketplace (such as Nikola Tesla and the electric car), focusing all of their energy on scientific research to change our relationship to chemicals (such as Rachel Carson in her book Silent Spring), or whose activism ensured that our natural habitat would be conserved (such as John Muir and his work in the California forests).
As we celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day today, we are also celebrating Gaylord Nelson, one our many sustainability heroes. As a State Senator in Wisconsin in the 1960's, Nelson was incredibly active in environmental policy and protections. He felt as though others in politics weren't paying enough attention to these important issues. As a result, he decided to propose to the American people the vision of Earth Day in order to bring the environment into the political spotlight.
The first Earth Day took place on April 22, 1970, marking an important day when people made it clear that they were concerned about the deterioration of the planet and the unconscious use of resources. More than 20 million people in schools and communities across the nation demonstrated their support for climate change legislation, food security, health, energy supplies and clean water. It is known as one of the most significant grassroots efforts in American history. Today, Earth Day is celebrated in over 140 countries.
Gaylord had a long-term vision for creating this Earth Day: to show the political leaders of the United States that it's citizens truly wanted to see action and policy changes that would conserve and protect the earth's precious resources. This movement and increase in awareness of environmental concerns have encouraged Congress to pass some of the most important legislation that affects all of us today, such as the Clean Air Act and the Environmental Education Act. Additionally, Nelson saw that environmental protection and economic prosperity were not mutually exclusive; to conserve the environment would contribute to a decrease in poverty.
The same issues and concerns that we are facing now are the same concerns that the first Earth Day celebrators faced in 1970. Since then, there have been many more sustainability heroes to join the group of distinguished people mentioned above. We invite you to honor everyone in the past that took steps to create a better future; to honor your colleagues and friends who are adopting new habits and patterns that are better for the planet; and to honor yourself for fully embracing sustainable practices.
There are many ways that you can participate in Earth Day today. Plant a garden in your yard, participate in a community activity, or take a walk in your neighborhood. You can always go to the Earth Day website for information on activities and events in your area.
