Our systems need transformation! It’s time for the people of the world to hold governments and the private sector accountable for their role in our environmental crisis while also calling for bold, creative, and innovative solutions led by Indigenous knowledges. That’s why each year on April 22nd, more than a billion people celebrate Earth Day to protect the planet, get inspired, take action and be a part of the green revolution. For Earth Day 2023, we need to act (boldly), innovate (broadly), and implement (equitably) to form a partnership with the planet. This week in the mentoring circle, we join the world’s largest environmental movement by taking action for the planet with supportive digital resources. Let’s picture a better planet!
Every year on April 22, Earth Day marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970. Earth Day 1970 provided a voice to an emerging environmental consciousness and put environmental concerns on the front page. Earth Day came at a time of great challenge for the environmental community to combat the cynicism of climate change deniers, well-funded oil lobbyists, reticent politicians, a disinterested public, and a divided environmental community. In 2010, EARTHDAY.ORG established the digital era of Earth Day and ignited a significant moment for global action for the environment. EARTHDAY.ORG has brought hundreds of millions of people into the environmental movement, creating opportunities for civic engagement and volunteerism in 193 countries. In the following video from the History Channel learn about the History of Earth Day!
EARTHDAY.ORG believes that grassroots activism is the best way to build a world literate in climate and environmental science. Their avenue to develop environmental literacy is through high-quality environmental education programs which help learners develop attitudes, knowledge and skills to tackle complex environmental issues. Environmental education also leads to an internalization of environmental values. A world inspired by environmental values will take local, regional and global actions to safeguard the Earth and its inhabitants. In 1970, during an era of civic action and public demonstrations, concerned citizens from all walks of life deployed environmental teach-ins at the first Earth Day. People gathered to learn the facts about environmental degradation happening across the country. What’s changed since the first Earth Day? In the following video see how our actions since 1970 have added up.
Teach-ins play a significant role in providing communities with the knowledge they need to advocate for a cleaner, more secure future. Use EARTHDAY.ORG Teach-In Toolkit to plan an effective teach-in that will bring your community together and build capacity to make change! A teach-in is similar to a general educational gathering on any complicated issue, usually an issue or problem of importance to society. The main difference between a teach-in and a seminar is the refusal to limit the discussion to a strict academic scope. Teach-ins are meant to be practical, participatory and oriented toward action — discussion and questions are encouraged and at the core of the methodology. Teach-ins should end with the community deciding on a call-to-action for what steps they can take to make a difference. Learn below with Dr. Ritchie how to plan a teach-in!
Earth Week will pioneer EARTHDAY.ORG’s farthest-reaching efforts to date by amplifying inspiration and action worldwide from April 14th to April 22nd worldwide. Join them virtually for a series of Earth Day Lives or in person at one of their major events happening across each time zone. The Earth Day 2023 theme is focused on engaging the more than 1 billion people, governments, institutions, and businesses who participate in Earth Day to recognize our collective responsibility and help accelerate the transition to an equitable, prosperous green economy for all. EARTHDAY.ORG is focused on reframing the conversation, accelerating action, and bringing everyone together to understand that this is within our reach if we work together. Whether we are taking action virtually or in person – we can join the largest environmental movement on Earth! Learn more about Earth Week in the following video.
Earth Day engages more than 1 billion people every year and has become a major stepping stone along the pathway of engagement around the protection of the planet. Earth Day isn’t just a day; it’s a movement that provides the foundation for sustainable growth. Throughout April, commemorate our planet with marches, rallies, volunteer events, and teach-ins. We have the opportunity to support our community in building their awareness and motivation to address local and global environmental issues. We are all connected to and by Earth — whether it’s the trees and plants that give us the oxygen we breathe, the snow-capped mountains that provide the water we drink, or the breathtaking geophysical forces that shape the land beneath our feet. Earth Day reminds us of the importance of dedicating our time, resources, and energy to honour Earth’s connections and be aware of environmental issues. Investing in our planet is necessary to protect it and the best way to pave a path toward a prosperous future.