Earth Day: A History and Interesting Facts!

Boro-Wide Recycling Corp.

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Each year on April 22, people all around the world celebrate a day dedicated to our environment. According to the Earth Day Network, this day marks the anniversary of the "modern environmental movement" that first began in 1970.

In 1970, saving the planet was probably the last thing on many people's minds as the US struggled with protest and war. However, unlike others, Earth Day founder Senator Gaylord Nelson felt environmental concerns needed to be addressed after witnessing the results of the 1969 oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. It was then that he decided to take to the public and express his concern about air and water pollution along with other pressing environmental issues.

On April 22, 1970, 20 million Americans, including universities and students, began a protest against the deterioration of the environment. Appearing to be successful, this day led to the development of the US Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species acts.

Twenty years later, in 1990, Denis Hayes led another campaign which focused on recycling in addition to other environmental issues. Again, in 2000, Hayes developed a campaign that focused on global warming and clean energy. With each decade raising awareness of different environmental concerns, hundreds of thousands of activists have joined in on the movement and continue to push for eco-friendly habits that will help to protect our planet. In fact, to date, on April 22 more than 192 countries continue to celebrate Earth Day.

Did you know? Check out these interesting Earth Day Facts:

1. Earth Day is considered the largest secular holiday in the world.
2. On the first Earth Day in NYC, the mayor shut down 5th Avenue and used Central Park to celebrate.
3. In 2009, the United Nations renamed Earth Day to "International Mother Earth Day."

At Boro Wide Recycling, we work to keep our planet safe by providing comprehensive recycling services to commercial and residential customers. Join us in our efforts! Contact us to learn how we can help you in your recycling efforts, and don't forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date with the latest news in recycling efforts and eco-friendly tips.