vihang: April 2012

Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22 after it was first held on April 22, 1970. US Senator Gaylord Nelson is credited for the genesis of Earth Day as he conceived it as a tool to raise ecological awareness after witnessing a huge oil spill in Santa Barbara, California in 1969

The original Earth Day was attended by about 20 million Americans.

The Earth Day movement went global in 1990 and is now celebrated in over 175 countries across the globe. April 22 was officially designated as the international Earth Day by the United Nations in 2009.

"Much like 1970, Earth Day 2010 came at a time of great challenge for the environmental community. Climate change deniers, well-funded oil lobbyists, reticent politicians, a disinterested public, and a divided environmental community all contributed to a strong narrative that overshadowed the cause of progress and change. In spite of the challenge, for its 40th anniversary, Earth Day Network reestablished Earth Day as a powerful focal point around which people could demonstrate their commitment," as stated in the official website of Earth Day.

The day is marked to raise awareness and appreciation for our planet's environment.