A Project of Earth Island Institute
earth month events - come join us!
Ocean Warriors
|
Spring Fling at
|
The history of earth day
On April 22, 1970, twenty million people across the nation protested the effects industrialism had on the environment. The demonstration was proposed by "Conservation Senator" Nelson but he would later say "Earth Day planned itself." By raising their voices and spreading ecological awareness, American citizens convinced Nixon and Congress that it was time they took action, too. The EPA was founded later that year, closely followed by the Clean Water Act and Endangered Species Act.
What began as an American protest became an international event now celebrated by 192 countries. And it's our part to keep the tradition alive and well. Upon receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1995, Nelson had this to say in his acceptance speech:
The opportunity for a gradual but complete break with our destructive environmental history and a new beginning is at hand.... We can measure up to the challenge if we have the will to do so — that is the only question. I am optimistic that this generation will have the foresight and the will to begin the task of forging a sustainable society.
What began as an American protest became an international event now celebrated by 192 countries. And it's our part to keep the tradition alive and well. Upon receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1995, Nelson had this to say in his acceptance speech:
The opportunity for a gradual but complete break with our destructive environmental history and a new beginning is at hand.... We can measure up to the challenge if we have the will to do so — that is the only question. I am optimistic that this generation will have the foresight and the will to begin the task of forging a sustainable society.
defend our water resources
|
|
Your donation will allow us to install and maintain Clean Up Stations, organize clean ups around the country and
educate hundreds of elementary school students each year. Make a difference TODAY!
educate hundreds of elementary school students each year. Make a difference TODAY!
