Every year on April 22, people around the world come together to celebrate Earth Day to raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage action to protect it. It also serves as a reminder of what a beautiful planet we have got. Earth Day was first celebrated in 1970 as a small environmental movement, and later grew into a global call to action, inspiring millions to take steps - big and small - to safeguard the Earth's natural beauty and resources.
Earth Day was first observed in 1970, an era when industries belched out smoke and sludge with little fear of the consequences from wither the law or bad press. It was a time when air pollution was accepted as the "smell of prosperity", especially in America. Inspired by the ravages of a massive oil spill in California, Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin (sometimes seen as the father of Earth Day) envisioned a day of education and activism. Partnering with activist Denis Hayes, Nelson helped organise rallies and demonstrations across the United States. Over 20 million Americans participated in that first Earth Day, demanding cleaner air, water, and a healthier environment.
The success of Earth Day directly led to landmark legislation in the United States, such as the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Today, Earth Day is observed in over 190 countries, making it one of the largest secular observances in the world.
The significance of Earth Day continues to grow with the mounting challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and deforestation. It serves as a reminder that every individual plays a role in shaping the future of our planet.
Earth Day is not just a celebration; it's a commitment - a global conversation about sustainability, innovation, and responsibility.
Events worldwide include tree planting drives, clean-up campaigns, climate marches, educational seminars, and eco-friendly initiatives at corporate and community levels. Digital activism has also surged, allowing people to participate online through webinars, social media campaigns, and pledges.
The Delhi government has made it mandatory for all high-rise commercial, institutional, and hospitality buildings to install anti-smog guns to combat pollution levels in the national capital, according to an official directive.
India stands at the cusp of becoming a global leader in exposomics research, with the potential to reshape its understanding and prevent the disease, said Dr Kalpana Balakrishnan, Dean of Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research.
Delhi on Wednesday recorded the highest minimum temperature of the season so far at 30.2 degrees Celsius, 3.5 degrees above normal.
The initiative is part of a pilot scheme aimed at tackling air pollution caused by cooking emissions.
With one foot braced on the helicopter's landing skid, a veterinarian lifted his air rifle, took aim and fired a tranquiliser dart at a polar bear.
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