Earth Day

Earth Day History

Earth Day seeks to promote environmental consciousness and urging action to protect our planet. Its objectives include raising awareness about pollution, deforestation, overpopulation, and wildlife protection. Earth Day encourages individuals and governments across the world to actively participate in sustainable practices that curb environmental degradation, reduce waste, and promote recycling efforts. Proper attention to these aspects can ensure we leave behind a productive and healthy environment for future generations.

Earth Day, inaugurated on April 22, 1970, has a relevant bearing on the environmental context of Nigeria. As Africa's most populous country, Nigeria grapples with environmental challenges ranging from deforestation and soil degradation to air and water pollution. The observance encourages Nigerians to acknowledge these issues and adopt sustainable practices. In recent years, Nigeria has intensified its efforts towards environmental conservation, pushing for green energy, clean-ups in polluted areas, and stricter regulations against indiscriminate waste disposal - all aspects emphasized by Earth Day.

In Nigeria, Earth Day is observed in different ways. Citizens are urged to plant trees, clean up their communities, and understand better recycling practices. Government bodies and non-governmental organizations foster awareness campaigns about environmental sustainability, conduct seminars, workshops, and initiate tree-planting drives. Additionally, Nigerians are encouraged to save water and electricity, hence promoting an environmentally friendly lifestyle. Earth Day takes place globally every year on April 22, emphasizing the shared responsibility of all nations towards protecting our planet.

Facts about Earth Day

• The theme for Earth Day in 2025 was Our Power, Our Planet.
  The theme in 2024 was Planet vs. Plastics.
  The theme in 2023 was Invest in Our Planet.
  
• During the 2015 UN Conference in Paris, France, participating nations concurred on the need for action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The countries cooperatively pledged to keep global temperature rise below 2C (3.6F). In celebration of Earth Day 2016 on April 22nd, the landmark agreement that testifies to this global commitment was signed at the UN Headquarters in New York by 175 participating nations. The history of Earth Day 2017 dates back to 1970 when it was first celebrated in 1970. It was founded by US Senator Gaylord Nelson to promote ecology and the respect for life on the planet as well as to encourage awareness of the growing problems of air, water, and soil pollution.
• The first Earth Day in Nigeria was marked in 1970, the same year that it was first celebrated worldwide.
• Earth Day in Nigeria highlights the unique environmental challenges the country faces, such as deforestation, desertification, pollution, and climate change.

In the News and Trending in Nigeria for Earth Day

Top things to do in Nigeria for Earth Day

• Try not to use your car for the entire day. Instead, use public transit, walk, or ride your bicycle.
• Change your traditional incandescent light bulbs to energy saving LED or CFL light bulbs.
• Visit Lekki Conservation Center: The 78-hectare reserve is home to a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. Visiting such places brings awareness to the necessity of conservation efforts.
• Attend Public Lectures and Seminars: Conducted by environmental groups and institutions to educate the public about the environment and sustainability.