What if one day could change the world?
Every year on April 22, over 1 billion people in more than 190 countries come together to do just that—clean beaches, plant trees, rally for climate justice, and raise their voices for the Earth. But where did it all begin?
Let’s rewind to where it all started.
The Start of Earth Day
While Earth Day was born in the United States, it has become deeply embedded in European environmental activism, policy reform, and public consciousness.
Today, it stands as a symbol of our shared responsibility to protect the planet.
Earth Day in Europe: Building Momentum
The 1990 Earth Day, coordinated globally by American environmental activist Denis Hayes, involved over 200 million people across 141 countries, with significant participation from European cities like London, Paris, Berlin, and Rome.
Image source Gender Matters
The early 1990s saw the emergence of landmark EU environmental laws, such as the Habitats Directive (1992) for biodiversity conservation and the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (1994).
Earth Day helped fuel public pressure, laying the groundwork for stronger, coordinated climate action across European member states.
From Protests to Policy: Earth Day and the European Green Deal
Fast forward to the present, and Earth Day continues to influence the European Green Deal, the EU’s flagship initiative to make Europe climate-neutral by 2050.
The themes have evolved, too—shifting from traditional pollution concerns to circular economy models, sustainable urban planning, renewable energy, and digital climate innovation.
Why It Still Matters
In an era of climate anxiety, Earth Day offers a sense of collective momentum. It’s a day that brings together activists, educators, policymakers, students, and businesses across Europe to imagine and act on a greener, more resilient future.
Image source Earth Day
Whether you’re biking to work, attending a sustainability event, or signing a petition for stronger climate legislation, Earth Day is your chance to be part of something bigger, both within Europe and globally.
What is Earth Day?
Earth Day is an annual event celebrated on April 22 to raise awareness and inspire action for environmental protection.
When did Earth Day start?
Earth Day was first held in 1970 in the United States, sparked by growing concern over pollution and environmental neglect.
Who started Earth Day?
It was initiated by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson. Later, in 1990 it expanded worldwide, with over 200 million people in 141 countries.
What can I do to support Earth Day?
You can join clean-ups, plant trees, reduce waste, support sustainable brands, or advocate for stronger climate policies — every action helps!
