Earth day is observed on April 22 of every year in order to create awareness about pollution and to celebrate the environment of our planet. This year is a special occasion as it marks the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day and events was coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network in more than 193 countries.
The theme for Earth Day 2020 is “Climate Action”. The enormous challenge — but also the vast opportunities — of action on climate change have distinguished the issue as the most pressing topic for the 50th anniversary. Earthday.org-PRESS RELEASES
Background on Earth Day
The first Earth Day took place in 1970. Outraged by oil spills, smog and polluted rivers, 20 million people took to the streets, protesting what they recognized as an environmental crisis. It was the planet’s largest civic event at the time and compelled governments to take concrete actions, including passing environmental laws and establishing environmental agencies.
The day continues to hold great significance around the world. In 2009, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution formally recognizing the day as International Mother Earth Day. On Earth Day 2016, the United Nations formally adopted the Paris Agreement.
International Mother Earth Day: April 22
International Mother Earth Day is observed every year on April 22, to raise awareness about issues that lead to nature’s suffering. This Mother Earth Day, coinciding with the Super Year of Biodiversity, is focused on its role as an indicator of the Earth’s health.
- IMED was established in 2009, by the General Assembly under Resolution A/RES/63/278.
- The resolution was introduced by The Plurinational State of Bolivia and supported by more than 50 member states.
- The term Mother Earth is used because it “reflects the interdependence that exists among human beings, other living species and the planet we all inhabit”. Source – UN
About United Nations General Assembly (UNGA):
Headquarters– New York, United States (US).
President– Tijjani Muhammad-Bande.
