Every year on April 22nd, Earth Day is celebrated worldwide. This day reminds us that the Earth we inhabit is not just an ordinary place, but our only home. It is the source of the air, water, food, and resources necessary for our survival. But the question remains – are we taking proper care of it?
In today's era, with nature in crisis, glaciers melting, temperatures rising, and plastic pollution rampant, we must ask ourselves – what are we doing? And what more can we do?
The Origin of Earth Day
Earth Day was first observed in the United States in 1970. At that time, the US was undergoing rapid industrialization. Factory smoke, waste dumped into rivers, and rampant deforestation were endangering the environment. In response to these issues, US Senator Gaylord Nelson proposed designating a day to raise environmental awareness – and thus, April 22nd became 'Earth Day'.
The first Earth Day saw approximately 20 million American citizens take to the streets – through rallies, demonstrations, posters, and gatherings, they conveyed a message of environmental protection. Gradually, this movement spread beyond America. Today, Earth Day is celebrated in over 190 countries, with millions participating.
Why is Earth Day Important?
We live in a time of escalating pollution, climate change, deforestation, and plastic waste. If we don't act now, future generations will be forced to live on a sick, polluted, and unstable planet. Earth Day serves as a reminder that caring for nature is our primary responsibility – because if nature doesn't survive, neither will we.
Threats to the Earth Today
Our planet has suffered significant damage in recent years. Below are some major problems that demand our attention:
- Climate Change – The Earth's temperature is rising, causing glaciers to melt, sea levels to rise, and erratic weather patterns. Extreme heatwaves and sudden floods are consequences of this.
- Air and Water Pollution – Smoke from factories and vehicles is polluting the air. Plastics and other waste are being dumped into rivers and oceans.
- Deforestation – Forests are being cut down, destroying animal habitats and reducing the number of oxygen-producing trees.
- Loss of Biodiversity – Many birds, animals, and plants are disappearing due to the destruction of their natural habitats.
Earth Day 2025 Theme: 'Planet vs. Plastics'
Each year, Earth Day has a theme, and the 2025 theme is "Planet vs. Plastics". This theme focuses on a crucial issue – plastic pollution. Today, plastic is an integral part of our lives – bottles, bags, straws, brushes, toys, packaging… almost everything contains plastic.
However, this very plastic has become a threat. It pollutes rivers, oceans, and land. It kills animals by ingestion. And in the form of microplastics, it has now reached our air, water, and food.
What We Can Do: Small Steps, Big Impact
Simply giving speeches or posting photos on social media on Earth Day isn't enough. To bring about real change, we need to make practical changes in our lives.
1. Reduce Plastic Use
- Use cloth or jute bags instead of plastic bags.
- Use steel or glass bottles for drinking water.
- Avoid plastic packaging and buy unpackaged goods from local markets.
2. Plant and Care for Trees
- Plant at least one sapling every year.
- Trees reduce heat, clean pollution, and provide us with oxygen.
3. Conserve Energy
- Turn off lights and fans when leaving a room.
- Maximize the use of solar energy.
- Use bicycles or public transport instead of cars.
4. Save Water
- Don't leave taps running.
- Avoid water wastage in the bathroom.
- Adopt rainwater harvesting.
5. Raise Awareness about the Environment
- Teach children to love nature.
- Spread environmental education through schools, communities, and social media.
India and Earth Day
In a large and densely populated country like India, environmental problems are even more serious. Air pollution has increased significantly in major cities. Many villages face water scarcity. Waste disposal is not properly managed. However, the positive aspect is that many individuals, villages, and organizations in India are working to protect the environment. Organic farming, the use of solar energy, and the reuse of plastic are gradually increasing.
The Role of Schools and Colleges
- Every year, schools organize events like poster competitions, painting, speeches, and tree planting on Earth Day. This helps children understand the importance of the environment.
- However, it's crucial that we uphold this responsibility not just for one day, but every day.
- April 22nd compels us to reflect – are we truly caring for the Earth? Or are we harming it for our own benefit?
- The Earth provides us with everything – food, water, air, and shelter. It's time we gave something back.
So, this Earth Day, let's make a small resolution:
- Give up one bad habit (like excessive plastic use),
- And adopt one good habit (like planting trees, saving water).
