This year, the Earth Day Network has a goal to obtain one billion pledges across the world to participate in a green activity on April 22. So far, over 80 million people across the globe have pledged to participate in this year’s Earth Day by donating money, advocating for and generating green events in their communities. Because of these efforts over the past 40 years, Earth Day has become the largest global civic engagement activity and it only continues to grow.
Through a grassroots effort, in 1970, 20 million demonstrators gathered at schools and communities across the nation to celebrate the first Earth Day. Because of the success of the first event and the obvious need for more environmental advocacy, President Nixon created the Environment Protection Agency later that year. Unfortunately, due to industrialization and the demands of population increase, Earth faces many challenges including global warming, endangered species, and polluted air and water to name a few. Despite a global awareness to this increasing problem, skeptics and some industries are fighting against necessary green modifications that would alleviate many of these concerns. Through advocacy and education, Illinois has the opportunity to become one of the leading states in green technology. It is imperative that each of our communities promotes and practices green alternatives whenever possible, including Earth Day. By simply planting a community garden, changing to energy efficient light bulbs, or planting a tree, you can make an impact. It is easy to do your part. To help organize or find an event in your community please visit
