Earth Day is an annual event celebrated every April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection and raise awareness about issues such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change. It originated in 1970 when U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson organized a nationwide environmental teach-in to engage the public and push environmental issues onto the national agenda. The first Earth Day saw 20 million Americans participate, and it led to significant environmental legislation and the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
. Since 1990, Earth Day has become a global event involving over one billion people in nearly 200 countries. It includes activities like planting trees, cleaning up litter, and promoting sustainable practices to protect the planet. Earth Day also symbolizes the ongoing effort to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability worldwide
. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the Earth's ecosystems for current and future generations. It honors the achievements of the environmental movement and encourages individuals and communities to take action for a healthier planet
