World Earth Day

What is World Earth Day and why is it celebrated?

Earth Day, animal welfare, and environmental action go hand-in-hand. This day serves to raise the profile of issues facing our planet and its wildlife, including animal welfare, animal protection, and biodiversity - and to mobilise people and governments around the world to take action.

When was Earth Day created?

World Earth Day began in the USA in 1970 when it was set up by Senator and Environmentalist Gaylord Nelson as a way to highlight environmental issues in the country.

Now, Earth Day is a global celebration.

What are 5 facts about Earth Day?

• Oceans are under siege: From ghost gear, overfishing, and plastic pollution to rising temperatures caused by climate change, marine wildlife faces many threats in our oceans.
• Biodiversity is threatened by the food system: Factory farming is having a devastating effect on wildlife and biodiversity. Animals are affected by deforestation, fires, and lost habitat in the Amazon Rainforest and beyond.
• Billions of wildlife animals are exploited for profit: Wildlife farming and the illegal wildlife trade are also harming animals. Around 5.5 billion animals are bred and reared on wildlife farms for commercial exploitation.
• Extinction Emergency is happening: According to the IUCN Red List, 46,300 plant and animal species are at risk of extinction. That's 28% of all the species the organisation assesses. The threat of extinction is primarily driven by climate change, habitat loss, and human activity.
• Protecting sentient beings is protecting our planet: Humans aren't the only sentient beings on Earth. Animals have thoughts, feelings, and individual personalities. To honour Earth Day and endangered species, we should do our best to protect animals and their habitats.

FAQs

When is World Earth Day?

World Earth Day is held on the 22nd of April every year. This day is an opportunity to raise awareness of environmental issues like wildlife loss, the illegal wildlife trade, climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.

What is the most endangered species on Earth?

The number of endangered species in the world is around 46,3000.

Some of the most endangered species on Earth include Javan rhinos, the Amur leopard, and mountain gorillas.

How does Earth Day help animals?

Earth Day and animal protection go hand-in-hand. Earth Day for animals helps raise awareness of the threats both land and marine creatures face, government lobbying for better protections and local environmental events.

It's a chance to protect animals by campaigning against factory farming, the use of animals in traditional medicine, and the trade in exotic pets.

How can we protect our environment and animals?

To celebrate Earth Day and wildlife conservation, we can protect our environment and animals by working to repair habitats affected by climate change, choosing wildlife-friendly tourism over exploitative attractions, and fighting to end factory farming.

Factory farming is reducing biodiversity and contributing to climate change. It also impacts some of the most endangered ecosystems on Earth because farmers are deliberately setting fires to clear land for agriculture.

How can you reduce your carbon footprint?

You can reduce your carbon footprint by choosing to eat plant-based meals, buying sustainable products, and walking or cycling instead of driving.