As Earth Day approaches its 55th anniversary, some experts ask whether the celebration has kept pace with the urgency of the climate crisis.
The Birth of Earth Day
On April 22, 1970, the United States witnessed an unprecedented environmental awakening as 20 million citizens—approximately 10% of the national population—gathered for the inaugural Earth Day. This nationwide demonstration, conceived by Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin, aimed to spotlight the urgent need for environmental reform. The date was strategically chosen to engage college students, falling between spring break and final exams. The massive turnout and public demand for action led to significant legislative milestones, including creating the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in December 1970.
Global Expansion and Impact
The momentum generated by the first Earth Day catalyzed a series of environmental laws in the United States, such as the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act. These legislative efforts aimed to curb pollution and protect natural habitats. The movement’s influence quickly transcended national borders, and by 1990, Earth Day had mobilized 200 million people across 141 countries, underscoring a universal commitment to environmental stewardship.
As Earth Day approaches its 55th anniversary on April 22nd, the theme “Our Power, Our Planet” emphasizes the critical role of renewable energy in combating climate change. This initiative calls for a global effort to triple the generation of clean electricity by 2030, advocating for a shift towards sustainable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. The campaign encourages individuals, communities, and governments to unite in accelerating the transition to renewable energy, highlighting the collective power to effect meaningful environmental change.
Earth Day’s Complicated Legacy
Despite its longevity and reach, Earth Day is no longer immune to criticism. In a 2024 FiveThirtyEight analysis, journalist Kaleigh Rogers wrote that Earth Day “may be a victim of its own success,” noting that many of the environmental protections it helped usher in are now weakened or politically contested. Some experts question whether annual observance days like Earth Day still spur meaningful change—or have become performative rituals with limited impact on policy or behavior.
Critics also point to the corporate co-optation of Earth Day. A growing number of brands engage in green marketing campaigns tied to April 22nd, often without measurable commitments to reduce emissions or environmental harm. This “greenwashing,” some argue, dilutes the movement’s radical root.
Yet Earth Day remains an important catalyst for environmental education and civic engagement. As highlighted by a recent Asuene blog post, Earth Day provides a global platform to raise awareness about the climate crisis, advocate for climate justice, and push for accountability from corporations and governments.
Many local organizations use Earth Day to engage schools, organize clean-up campaigns, promote climate literacy, and introduce new legislation. The Earth Day Network reports that over 1 billion people participate in related events each year, from planting trees to demanding stronger climate policies.
Returning To Its Roots
If Earth Day is to remain relevant in this critical decade for climate action, many believe it must return to its activist roots. That means shifting focus from “feel-good” volunteerism toward bold demands for structural change—on everything from energy and transportation to agriculture and environmental equity.
Campaigners behind this year’s “Our Power, Our Planet” initiative argue that this year’s theme is a step in the right direction. “We must make it clear that we have the power to bring about a global clean energy revolution,” writes EarthDay.org President Kathleen Rogers. The organization is calling on the public to mobilize for a Global Day of Action on April 22, 2025.
The Road Ahead
Whether Earth Day can meet the moment remains to be seen. But as the climate crisis accelerates—with rising sea levels, extreme heat, and record-breaking disasters—there is no shortage of reasons to act. This year’s Earth Day provides both a mirror and a map: a moment to reflect on what’s been achieved, and a path forward for what still needs to be done. “Environmental awareness must be matched with environmental action,” says EarthDay.org’s campaign message. “Earth Day is not a day — it’s a movement.”