Every year on April 22nd, people around the world gather together to honour our planet and our home. It is a day to acknowledge the importance of protecting the Earth, and taking part in activities or discussions on how we can be advocates for environmental change. But what many people don’t know is, the first Earth Day was only in the 1970s!
Earth Day is an annual global event that encourages individuals and businesses to take action to protect the environment. Here's a look at the history of Earth Day and how your business can get involved.
The History of Earth Day
The very first Earth Day was celebrated in the United States in 1970, a time of air pollution, a booming economy, and industrial prosperity. But, this had detrimental effects on the Earth. Environmental issues began to gain traction at this time, and seemed to be ignored by many politicians all while factories spewing black smoke into the air for hours was the norm. There was no legislation against it, and no regulators to stop it.
But, senator by the name of Gaylord Nelson decided he was fed up with being ignored by people in power, and decided to create a day to showcase people’s concern for the environment and demonstrate that people cared and were ready for action. Thus, Earth Day was born as a way to force this issue to the forefront of politics and demand action. Even better, 20 million Americans across the country stood behind him. As Nelson says himself:
“While I was confident that a nationwide peaceful demonstration of concern would be impressive, I was not quite prepared for the overwhelming response that occurred on that day.”
The response was better than Nelson or anyone could have expected, and was proof that rallying together truly works. The December after Earth Day was founded, Congress created a new federal agency to face environmental issues: The Environmental Protection Agency – their job including researching and tackling environmental issues.
Several important pieces of American legislation followed and passed like the Clean Air Act, the Endangered Species Act, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, and many more. These pieces of legislation not only changed the USA’s environmental trajectory, but trajectories elsewhere as well.
The first global Earth Day occurred in 1990, and change has sprung about all over the world for environmental action. The 1992 Earth Summit brought together 179 nations to produce two very important frameworks: A Framework Convention on Climate Change, and a Framework Convention on Biological Diversity.
These aimed to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and protect biodiversity all around the globe. Environmental movements have snowballed ever since, with climate change becoming a household name and many very passionate people doing their best to combat it. Earth Day ignited environmental activism, and every year it serves as a reminder that the planet we live on is important, and it is our responsibility to care for it.
Earth Day 2024: Planet vs Plastics
Each year, Earth Day adopts a different global theme. In 2024, it was planet versus plastics, demanding we reduce plastic pollution by 60% by 2040. Single use plastics are a scourge to the planet, and we have the power to come together again and stop it. Collectively, the world uses around 5 trillion plastic bags per year. Here at SR Mailing, we feel passionately about the no plastic movement, and think recycling and alternative materials are the way to go. Which is why we offer both for your packaging needs.
How Your Business Can Support Earth Day
Choosing sustainable packaging is one of the simplest ways businesses can reduce plastic waste while demonstrating their commitment to environmental responsibility.
In honour of Earth Day, consider switching to more sustainable packaging solutions. Whether you want paper mailing bags, compostable mailing bags, or mailing bags made from already used plastic, SR Mailing offers eco-friendly packaging designed to help businesses reduce their environmental impact. By choosing packaging with a smaller footprint, it showcases your commitment to eco-friendly change, and showcases it to your customers too.
FAQs
When is Earth Day?
Earth Day is celebrated every year on 22nd April. It brings together people, communities and businesses around the world to raise awareness of environmental issues and encourage action to protect the planet.
Why is Earth Day celebrated?
Earth Day is celebrated to promote environmental awareness and inspire people to take positive action. It highlights important issues such as climate change, pollution, biodiversity and sustainable living.
How can businesses support Earth Day?
Businesses can support Earth Day by reducing waste, using sustainable packaging, increasing recycling efforts and choosing environmentally friendly materials. Small changes can help reduce environmental impact while demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.
Why is sustainable packaging important?
Sustainable packaging helps reduce waste, minimise plastic use and lower the environmental impact of shipping products. It also supports businesses looking to meet customer demand for more environmentally responsible packaging solutions.
