In 1970, with the creation of Earth Day, the modern environmental movement was born. Founded by Wisconsin senator Gaylord Nelson, the celebration saw millions of Americans take to community streets to demonstrate on behalf of their planet. The first Earth Day was a catalyst for an important movement in the U.S., and influenced the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency and the passages of the Clean Air, Clean Water and Endangered Species acts. In 1990, Earth Day became a global event, spreading from backyard events in the U.S. to large-scale celebrations in the world’s most populous cities.
And today, due to our ever-growing eco-consciousness, Earth Day is more relevant than ever. For the event’s 40th anniversary, communities across Ohio will pull out all the stops for Earth Day celebrations, including the nation’s longest-standing Earth Day fest, held in Cleveland. EarthFest 2010, presented by the Earth Day Coalition, will take place at the Cleveland Metropark Zoo on Sunday, April 18. At the fest you’ll find more than 160 environmentally focused exhibits, from an organic food market to a “green” home improvement area and displays of clean transportation options.
Other Earth Day events include the Toledo Zoo’s Party for the Planet, held April 17, where you’ll learn how to be a “good neighbor” to the wildlife in your yard; the Earth Gathering Festival at the Pump House Center for the Arts and Yoctangee Park in Chillicothe, also on April 17, featuring an art show with works inspired by nature and educational sustainability information; and Earth Day at Lake Metroparks Farmpark and Penitentiary Glen Reservation in Kirtland, held April 18, an event that includes renewable energy exhibits, habitat preservation programs and free tree saplings for each family.
And while there are several special Earth Day festivities going on, there are plenty of ways to do your part at home, too. Head to a farmer’s market and grab fresh produce for fun in the kitchen, bring some green into your home space with potted plants or tend to the garden. From starting a compost pile in your back yard to creating Mother Earth-inspired crafts with the kids, Earth Day activities can be easy and enjoyable for all ages.