Earth Day is an annual event celebrated on April 22nd to show support for environmental protection and raise awareness about the importance of conservation. Since its inception in 1970, Earth Day has evolved into a global movement, uniting people from all walks of life to take action and make a positive impact on our planet. In this blog post, we will delve into the history of Earth Day, its significance, and the exciting events planned for the future.

The Birth of Earth Day:
Earth Day started as an idea proposed by peace activist John McConnell during a UNESCO Conference in 1969. Originally set for March 21st, the first day of spring in the northern hemisphere, this day aimed to honor the Earth and the concept of peace. It gained international recognition and support after a proclamation written by McConnell was signed by United Nations Secretary-General U Thant.

The Birth of a Movement:
Shortly after McConnell’s idea gained traction, United States Senator Gaylord Nelson took the initiative to organize a nationwide environmental teach-in. He appointed Denis Hayes as the National Coordinator of the event, which would later become known as Earth Day. On April 22, 1970, more than 20 million people participated in rallies, events, and demonstrations across the United States, marking the largest single-day protest in human history.

Earth Day Goes Global:
Buoyed by the tremendous success of the first Earth Day, Hayes orchestrated its international expansion in 1990. Earth Day events were organized in 141 nations, creating a powerful global movement for environmental awareness and action. Since then, Earth Day has become a day for individuals, communities, and organizations worldwide to join hands and address the pressing environmental challenges we face.

The Impact of Earth Day:
Earth Day has had a lasting impact on environmental policy and activism. For instance, on Earth Day 2016, the landmark Paris Agreement, a crucial international climate protection treaty, was signed by over 120 countries, including the United States and China. In addition to substantial political achievements, Earth Day has inspired countless initiatives and projects at a grassroots level, encouraging communities to become more engaged in environmental issues.

Looking Forward:
As Earth Day approaches its 55th anniversary in 2025, the focus is turning towards the theme of “Planet vs. Plastics” for 2024. This theme emphasizes the urgent need to address the global plastic pollution crisis and encourages individuals and industries to adopt sustainable practices. Furthermore, EarthDay.org (formerly Earth Day Network) is consistently working to expand its efforts, engaging more people and promoting innovative solutions to preserve our planet.

Earth Day has evolved into a powerful force for change, transcending borders and uniting people in their commitment to protect our environment. Since its inception, Earth Day has been instrumental in raising awareness, shaping policies, and inspiring grassroots initiatives worldwide. As the largest online mass mobilization in history unfolded during Earth Day’s 50th anniversary in 2020, it became evident that the movement is stronger than ever. Together, by taking positive actions in our daily lives, we can contribute to a sustainable future for generations to come. Happy Earth Day!

https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-earth-day-april-22

#NationalEarthDay

Since its inception, the organizers promote events educating the public about a variety of subjects including:

• climate change
• air pollution
• water pollution
• erosion
• recycling
• composting
• renewable fuels and power
• carbon footprints
• efficient cars
• rain forests
• ecosystems

Earth Day 2024

The theme for Earthday.org 2024 is Planet vs. Plastics and to mark that Earthday.org has called for a 60% global reduction in plastic production by 2040.

In November 2023, to bring public attention to the health threat that microplastics pose, earthday.org released its report Babies vs. Plastics, which collated some of the latest science on the subject. The Guardian newspaper carried an Op Ed about the report highlighting that it is the children of the Global South who are being the most impacted by exposure to microplastics.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/

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In the heart of California’s San Joaquin Valley lies a tale of nature’s resilience and the enduring spirit of indigenous communities. Tulare Lake, once the largest body of freshwater west of the Mississippi River, vanished from the landscape over a century ago, leaving behind a legacy of environmental and cultural upheaval. But now, in a stunning turn of events, the ancient lake has returned, bringing with it hope, healing, and a renewed sense of connection to the land.

For the Tachi Yokut Tribe, Tulare Lake, known as Pa’ashi, holds deep historical and cultural significance. It was not just a body of water but a lifeline, sustaining both people and wildlife for generations. However, the lake’s disappearance in 1898 marked the beginning of a dark chapter in the region’s history. Indigenous communities were persecuted and displaced, and the land was transformed for farming through draining and irrigation—a testament to the era’s deeply entrenched settler colonialism.

Despite periodic reappearances in the decades that followed, Tulare Lake remained largely absent from the landscape until the barrage of atmospheric rivers that flooded California in 2023. Against all odds, the lake returned, defying expectations and rekindling a sense of wonder among those who witnessed its resurgence. Now, once again stretching across the valley, Tulare Lake serves as a beacon of hope and a symbol of nature’s resilience.

The return of Tulare Lake has brought about a cascade of positive effects, both ecological and cultural. Native species have reclaimed their habitats, and migratory birds once again grace the skies above the Pacific Flyway. For the Tachi Yokut Tribe, the lake’s resurgence represents a return to ancestral lands and traditions. Ceremonies are once again held along its shores, and native plants are being reintroduced, signaling a renewed connection to the land and its natural rhythms.

However, the rejuvenation of Tulare Lake is not without its challenges. The floods have caused significant damage to crops, homes, and infrastructure, posing a dilemma for policymakers and residents alike. Yet, amidst the destruction, there is a growing consensus that Tulare Lake should be allowed to remain. Recognizing its importance as a vital component of the region’s ecosystem, there is a call for a paradigm shift in how we view and interact with the land.

Letting Tulare Lake remain could not only heal the Central Valley’s relationship with water but also serve as a model for ecological restoration and coexistence. As efforts to drain the lake continue, it is imperative that we consider the long-term implications and embrace a more holistic approach to land management—one that prioritizes sustainability, resilience, and respect for indigenous knowledge and stewardship.

In the words of Kenny Barrios, a cultural liaison for the Tachi Yokut Tribe, “The lake is just like us.” Resilient, enduring, and deeply connected to the land, Tulare Lake stands as a testament to the power of nature and the human spirit. As we embark on this journey of restoration and reconciliation, let us draw inspiration from the ancient waters that have returned to reclaim their rightful place in the landscape.

Tulare Lake, also known as Tache Lake in Yokuts language, is a freshwater lake located in the southern San Joaquin Valley, California, United States. It was historically the largest freshwater lake to the west of the Mississippi River. For thousands of years, from the Paleolithic era, Tulare Lake was a uniquely rich area that supported perhaps the largest population of Native Americans north of present-day Mexico.

In the latter half of the 19th century, Tulare Lake was drained by diverting its tributary rivers to support agricultural irrigation and municipal water usage. In contemporary times, it is typically a dry lakebed that features residual wetlands and marshes. The lake only reappears after episodes of unusually high rainfall or snowmelt, as it did in 1942, 1969, 1983, 1997, 1998, and 2023. (Wikipedia)

https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/

In recent years, wildfires have plagued California, causing widespread concerns about air quality. As haze and smoke engulf skylines, visibility decreases, and the effects are felt by all, especially those with underlying health conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified air pollution as the greatest environmental threat to human health, attributing one out of every nine deaths worldwide to this silent killer. To assess the severity of the problem within the Golden State, IQAir conducted a comprehensive study, revealing California’s top ten most-polluted cities based on air pollution levels from 2018 to 2023.

1. Happy Camp: Air Quality Index (AQI) – 16.8
   Topping the charts is Happy Camp, a municipality that endured significant exposure to wildfire smoke in 2020. Despite this dubious distinction, the city’s AQI of 16.8 needs to be put into perspective. Compared to other international cities like Delhi, India (347), Dhaka, Bangladesh (185), and Milano, Italy (143), Happy Camp’s pollution levels are relatively lower.
2. Baldwin Park: AQI – 15.3
   Baldwin Park follows closely with an AQI of 15.3, demonstrating the challenges faced by this urban center. The city’s proximity to major highways and industrial areas could contribute to its elevated pollution levels.
3. Ridgewood: AQI – 15.3
   Sharing the same AQI as Baldwin Park, Ridgewood highlights the need for concerted efforts to improve air quality in this community.
4. Cutler: AQI – 14.9
5. Salton City: AQI – 14.9
   Both Cutler and Salton City register an AQI of 14.9, indicating the persistent pollution struggles faced by these regions.
6. Orleans: AQI – 14.7
7. North El Monte: AQI – 14.4
   Both Orleans and North El Monte underscore the challenges faced by rural and suburban areas in maintaining clean air quality.
8. Willowbrook: AQI – 14.4
9. Willow Creek: AQI – 14.1
   Both Willowbrook and Willow Creek illustrate the diverse geographical landscape across California, as urban and rural areas alike contend with pollution challenges.
10. San Bernardino: AQI – 14.0
    Occupying the tenth spot on the list, San Bernardino showcases the need for ongoing efforts to mitigate air pollution in larger cities.

The alarming pollution levels recorded in California’s top ten most-polluted cities demand immediate attention and comprehensive actions to safeguard the well-being of residents. While the data emphasizes the challenges faced by these communities, it is crucial not to lose sight of the global scale of the problem. Initiatives to combat air pollution need to be undertaken collectively, involving government bodies, environmental organizations, and individuals. By implementing sustainable practices, increasing awareness, and supporting clean air policies, we can collectively work towards improved air quality and the well-being of all Californians.

Please take a look at the IQ Air study by clicking on the link here. https://www.iqair.com/us/world-most-polluted-cities

https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/

https://patch.com/california/orange-county/s/ivmrl/these-are-cas-top-10-most-polluted-cities-report-says