Earth Day 2016: Trees for the Earth

Artwork by: Mike Yap

The 22^nd of April marks the 46^th Earth Day or International Mother Earth Day, where man puts nature on a pedestal and highlights our commitment to be stewards of this planet.

It all started in 1969 when a peace activist, John McConnell, at a UNESCO Conference in San Francisco, requested a special day to celebrate and honor the Earth, and the concept of peace. The proposed date coincided with the first day of Spring in the northern hemisphere, March 21, 1970. Then, US Senator Gaylord Nelson, by only a month later, instigated Earth Day on April 22, 1970. Originally, it was only in the US that this was observed, but in 1990, Denis Hayes and his organization brought forth awareness and extended the celebration of Earth Day in 141 nations. Today, Earth Day Network facilitates its annual celebration in more than 192 countries [1].

"But the big decisions that lie ahead are not just for world leaders and policy-makers..." 

                                                                                   - UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon [2]

The battle to save the environment is not just for those who are in position, it is a mandate that everybody should take part in. As with the theme of this year’s Earth Day celebration, “Trees for the Earth” [3], let us join in and show our support, even in our very simple ways.

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[1] Kharel, G. C. Earth Day 2014: History, Origin and Significance; 10 Inspiring Quotes That Will Touch Your Heart. 22 April 2014. [Accessed 04/21/2015].

[2] International Mother Earth Day 22 April. www.un.org. [Accessed 04/21/2015].

[3] Earth Day - April 22. www.earthday.org. [Accessed 04/22/2016].


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