World Earth Day, also known as International Mother Earth Day, is a globally recognized event dedicated to raising awareness and promoting the sustainability of our planet. Celebrated annually on April 22, this day engages around one billion people worldwide in activities aimed at addressing the climate crisis and fostering behavioral change to protect the environment.
Origin and Significance
The concept of Earth Day can be traced back to the late 1960s when there was a surge in public debate over environmental issues. It gained official recognition in the USA in 1972 after peace activist John McConnell proposed the idea at a UNESCO conference in 1969. Earth Day began as a national teach-in on the environment, led by Senator Gaylord Nelson and activist Denis Hayes. April 22 was chosen for its optimal student participation, falling between Spring Break and Final Exams.
Themes and UN Goals
Each Earth Day has its own theme, focusing on different aspects of environmental protection and sustainability. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land), underscore the urgency of climate action and the preservation of terrestrial ecosystems.
Theme for 2024: ‘Planet vs. Plastics’
The theme for Earth Day 2024, announced by EARTHDAY.ORG, is ‘Planet vs. Plastics’. It emphasizes the threat plastics pose to the planet and human health, advocating for a 60% reduction in plastic production by 2040. Goals include phasing out single-use plastics by 2030 and addressing plastic pollution through policy changes and technological innovations.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
- When is World Earth Day celebrated annually?
- A) April 21
- B) April 22
- C) May 1
- D) June 5
- Answer: B) April 22
- Who proposed the idea of Earth Day at a UNESCO conference in 1969?
- A) Gaylord Nelson
- B) Denis Hayes
- C) John McConnell
- D) Rachel Carson
- Answer: C) John McConnell
- What are the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that highlight the urgency of climate action and the preservation of terrestrial ecosystems?
- A) SDG 7 and SDG 11
- B) SDG 9 and SDG 12
- C) SDG 13 and SDG 15
- D) SDG 14 and SDG 16
- Answer: C) SDG 13 and SDG 15
- What is the theme for Earth Day 2024?
- A) Climate Action Now
- B) Plastic-Free World
- C) Planet vs. Plastics
- D) Sustainable Living
- Answer: C) Planet vs. Plastics