When it comes to things we need to take good care of, our planet sits at the very top of the list. And while it deserves to be celebrated every day of the year (it does give us life, after all!), Earth Day is important as it shines a light on climate change and how it needs to be combatted. 

With environmental concerns growing at record speed, this globally-celebrated event is more significant than ever before. Below, we unpack how the concept started and how you can celebrate Earth Day in 2024. 

What Is Earth Day?

The first Earth Day was held in 1970 in the United States. Back then, it was no secret that the country - and many others around the world - were seriously harming the environment with things like petrol-guzzling cars and oil spills in the ocean. 

Concerned about the way things were going, Gaylord Nelson - a junior senator from Wisconsin - decided to take action. With help from other activists, he organised for a series of educational talks to take place on the same day at universities across the country. The idea gained national attention and in the end, over 20 million Americans took to the streets to protest about the threat of air and water pollution. 

Fast forward to today and over 190 nations currently take part in Earth Day celebrations. These vary from organised community events to individual - yet still impactful - activities which can easily be done at home. 

When Is Earth Day?

Earth Day has taken place on April 22nd for over 50 years. Why that date, you might ask? It was chosen specifically by Senator Nelson as it fell on a weekday between Spring Break and final university exams, making it more likely that students would attend the talks he’d planned.  

It stuck and now April 22nd is internationally recognised as the day we honour the Earth. 

How to celebrate Earth Day 

Wondering what you can do for Earth Day? The list of possible ways to get involved is endless. To help you mark it this year, we’ve put together a list of simple yet satisfying activities to do at home, work or school.  

Earth Day Activities For Kids 

It’s never too early to start nurturing the planet. Children of all ages can easily get involved with this year’s celebrations, too. Why not try the following Earth Day activities with your kids:

• Plan a nature-themed scavenger hunt around your garden or local park.
• Plant some seedlings in used yoghurt pots or jam jars.
• Build a bug hotel to attract more insects to your garden.
• Make homemade bird feeders by smothering empty kitchen roll tubes in a mix of peanut butter and seeds.
• Create art out of unwanted items like cardboard tubes, colourful plastic bottles or old coffee grounds.
• Play games outdoors all day to save electricity.

Earth Day Activities For Adults

Earth Day is for adults, too. Whether you want a few tips on how to become more eco-friendly or you’d rather join an organised community event, here are some Earth day projects to consider:

• Start a compost bin in your garden or on your balcony. 
• Plant flowers to attract bees and butterflies.
• Get involved in a local litter pick or organise your own. 
• Give your workplace or home an eco overhaul by switching to Earth-friendly cleaning products (or try making some of your own cleaning products at home!) and biodegradable kitchenware.
• Challenge yourself to use electronics and lights for as little time as possible throughout the day.
• Make a pact to buy no new clothes for an entire year.