
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.
Pakistan's Own Agency Busts Its 'Diwali Firework' Pollution Theory As AQI Crosses 600
Edited by Sanstuti NathAir Pollution Is As Big A Public Health Emergency As COVID: Former WHO Chief
Reported by Vedika Sud Sachdeva, Edited by Aastha Ahuja'Pollution Subsides': Yogi Adityanath Defends Bursting Of Crackers On Diwali
Edited by Debanish AchomFine particles such as PM2.5 can enter deep into the lungs and lead to inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Prolonged exposure may also affect the cardiovascular system and overall physical health.
A Pakistani air quality body has found no evidence linking Lahore's post-Diwali smog to fireworks in India, pointing instead to thousands of crop-residue fires in Pakistan's own Punjab.
Morning chest heaviness should not automatically be attributed to air pollution. Persistent or worsening symptoms warrant medical evaluation, particularly if accompanied by coughing, wheezing or breathlessness.
The Pakistan report said the available evidence did not support attributing Lahore's poor air quality after Diwali to fireworks across the border.
India should retain the AQI for public advisories but must publish uncapped PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations alongside it. An index may have a ceiling. Pollution does not.
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Opinion | Delhi Has Every Pollution Control Policy - Except One That Works
Monday November 09, 2026Every November, Delhi performs the same ritual. We check the AQI before stepping outdoors, children are kept indoors, masks reappear, schools consider shutting, construction is restricted, and emergency meetings are convened. Politicians blame the weather, neighbouring states, farmers, or firecrackers. And then, as the season changes, the urgency d...
दीवाली की चौखट पर दिल्ली में सांसों का संकट: 30 साल की स्टडी ने हरियाली को लेकर क्या बताया?
Thursday November 05, 2026अध्ययन में हरियाली की मात्रा के साथ उसके फैलाव और आपसी जुड़ाव को भी महत्वपूर्ण पाया गया. जिन इलाकों में हरियाली ज्यादा बिखरी हुई थी, वहां सतही तापमान अधिक रहा. इसके विपरीत, बड़े और आपस में जुड़े हरित क्षेत्रों में तापमान कम पाया गया.
Opinion: Why Delhi's Smog Can't Be Fixed From SpaceDavid Fickling, Bloomberg
Monday October 19, 2026The clearest sign that Delhi is on a path to cleaner air would be a decline in the amount of paddy grown nearby, and therefore the acreage liable to be burned each year.
Don't Normalise Air Purifiers As Delhi Chokes | The Reason Why
Thursday December 11, 2025More than 90 cities in the world's top 100 polluting list are in India. With every passing year, the AQI is rising, reaching 'hazardous' levels.
Blog | Well Done, Delhi. You've Turned Lung Sacrifice Into A Badge Of HonourSaikat Kumar Bose
Monday November 10, 2025Till some years back, Delhiites would ask angry questions to those in power about the capitals annual tryst with toxic air. This has changed. Those in the driving seat dont see the need to answer now.

