Earth Day 2011
EARTH DAY 2011
What is Earth Day?
Earth Day is a special day to celebrate our planet. Think of it as a birthday party for the Earth. People all over the world come together and celebrate our amazing home.
When is Earth Day?
Earth Day occurs each year on April 22nd.
Who started Earth Day?
Earth day was founded by Gaylord Nelson. At the time, he was a United States Senator from Wisconsin. Senator Nelson knew something had to be done to protect our planet. He talked to lawmakers, politicians, and President Nixon about protecting the environment.
When Did Earth Day begin?
Senator Nelson decided to hold a special day for the Earth on April 22nd, 1970. He wrote letters to colleges, universities and Scholastic Magazine telling them about the event. He knew the young people of America would help.An estimated 20 million Americans participated in the first Earth Day.
What has happened since the first Earth Day?
The history of Earth Day may be brief, but it's important. Before the first Earth Day, there weren't laws to protect the environment. People and factories could pollute the air with dangerous chemicals. They could also dump waste in streams and rivers.As a result of the first Earth Day, The United States Environmental Protection Agency was created. Passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species acts occurred. In 1990, Earth Day became a global event. An estimated 200 million people participated.Senator Gaylord Nelson was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his environmental efforts.
