Earth Month takes place during April every year. It’s a time to raise environmental awareness and create consciousness around the issues that affect mother nature during this time of crisis. Every April, leaders, and environmental activists from all over the world join hands to create sustainable development and offer climate solutions, to minimize our carbon footprint and prevent further harm to our planet’s natural resources. It’s increasingly important to observe this month as Earth starts to unravel the harmful effects of climate change which not only poses a threat to our existence but is irreversibly damaging all forms of life. Learn more about how you can participate this Earth Month.
History of Earth Month
Earth Month started as a movement to resist the abusive and negligent consumption of leaded gas by Americans. This climate crisis started with air pollution brought about by the emissions of massive, inefficient automobiles. In 1962, Rachel Carson published the book “Silent Spring,” which became a “New York Times” bestseller, that raised awareness of the effects of pollution on all living organisms. Besides being a huge commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies in 24 different countries, the book was the turning point in people’s environmental consciousness.In January 1969, several witnesses saw a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California, which caused major destruction to the environment. This captured the attention of senator Gaylord Nelson who wanted to use students’ passion and energy for anti-war protests for ecological activism, particularly regarding air and water pollution. This idea inspired a group of activists to dedicate themselves to encouraging all Americans to be proactive and environmentally conscious. They named their initiative Earth Day, which immediately caught the attention of the media and since a day isn’t enough to achieve the desired results regarding climate solutions, Earth Month was created. This was first celebrated on April 4, 1970.By 1990, Earth Month became a global event after 200 million participants from 141 countries joined the initiative. By 1992, the United Nations became actively involved too which further enhanced the organization’s visibility. Today, Earth Month is widely recognized as one of the most important month-long observances in the world.
Earth Month timeline
Rachel Carson publishes the book “Silent Spring” to raise awareness about the effects of air pollution on living organisms.
A massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California, causes senator Gaylor Nelson to form an organization that safeguards the environment.
The first Earth Month is held on April 4 to discuss climate change and think of ways to protect the environment.
Earth Month hits a global reach of 141 countries and 200 million participants.
Earth Month FAQs
How was Earth named?
The name ‘Earth’ was derived from the German words ‘ertha’ and ‘erde,’ which mean ‘ground.’
What are the main causes of global warming?
Global warming is mainly caused by the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation.
Why is the Earth getting hotter?
The warmer temperature of Earth is caused by the disruption of nature’s balance, which is manifested in changing weather patterns.
How to Observe Earth Month
-
Plant a tree
Several organizations driven to reduce the Earth’s carbon footprint aim to plant a tree a day. It’s one of the simplest ways to fight climate change and you can do it too.
-
Donate to a charity
Many non-government organizations are dedicated to conducting public research to contribute toward finding climate solutions. You can help them raise funds to give them access to more advanced equipment and have a broader reach. Some of the organizations are the Clean Air Task Force, Carbon180, Evergreen Collaborative, Rainforest Foundation US, and Sunrise Movement Education Fund.
-
Save household energy for a month
One of the most efficient ways to collectively help our climate crisis is to save energy at home. Encourage your family to reduce the use of electricity, or lower energy use by using LED light bulbs, for example.
5 Important Facts About The Environment
-
A drastic rise in the temperature
Within the next two decades, experts predict a dramatic rise in the global temperature by 34.7 degrees Fahrenheit as a result of excessive carbon emissions.
-
The hottest years
On record, the hottest years in history were 2016 and 2020.
-
Risk of extinction
More than one million species, including half of most amphibians, are at risk of mass extinction due to climate change.
-
Nature-based solutions aren’t funded enough
Despite being an effective way of storing carbon, natural carbon storage only receives 3% of all climate funding.
-
Carbon emissions are mostly caused by humans
The main contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions is deforestation, which is a man-made activity.
Why Earth Month is Important
-
It leads to immediate action
The fight against climate change is urgent because of the irreversible damage that it causes to the planet. As we’re experiencing the hottest years in recorded history, ecological solutions should become a priority. Earth Month allows these kinds of discussions to reach a wider audience.
-
Nature needs funding
By raising awareness about Earth Month, we’re also helping N.G.O.s fight climate change. Observing the day by providing financial support gives them access to the funding they need to implement effective solutions.
-
We love our planet
As cliche as it sounds, Earth is our only home. We should protect it not just for ourselves but for the next generation.
Earth Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | April 1 | Saturday |
| 2024 | April 1 | Monday |
| 2025 | April 1 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 1 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 1 | Thursday |
