World Earth Day observed with focus on climate action and sustainability

Today, April 22, marks World Earth Day. The theme for this year is “Our Power, Our Planet.” By 2026, many serious environmental issues are expected, such as climate change, loss of biodiversity, and the buildup and deterioration of industrial waste. The first Earth Day took place on April 22, 1970, in the United States, initiated by U.S. Senator and environmentalist Gaylord Nelson. It has since grown to be recognized worldwide. Currently, it is celebrated in 193 countries, with over one billion people participating. In 2009, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution to officially recognize this day, highlighting the Earth as a crucial system that supports all life. The movement began due to public worries about health risks from air and water pollution, mainly linked to high resource use in industrialized countries in Europe and beyond, which sparked environmental awareness and collective efforts.