Earth Day

Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22nd. It is a day to remember how important our planet is. People learn about ways to protect the air, water, and animals. Schools and communities plant trees and pick up trash. Earth Day reminds everyone to take care of nature all year long.

How It Began

Earth Day started in the United States in 1970. A senator named Gaylord Nelson helped create it. He wanted people to think about pollution and nature. Millions of Americans joined the first Earth Day. Now, more than a billion people around the world celebrate it.

A president and first lady plant a tree for the first Earth Day.
A president and first lady plant a tree for the first Earth Day. (White House Photo Office / Wikimedia Commons)

Ways to Help

There are many ways kids can help the Earth. You can recycle cans, bottles, and paper. Turning off lights saves energy. Planting flowers and trees helps bees and birds. Using less water is another great idea. Every small action makes a big difference.

Fun Facts

  • The first Earth Day happened on April 22, 1970.
  • Earth Day is now celebrated in over 190 countries.
  • People have planted millions of trees for Earth Day.

Did You Know?

Earth Day helped lead to important laws in the United States that protect clean air and water.