Earth Day 2026. Photo: Shutterstock Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22 as a way of raising awareness on key environmental issues and calling for joint action to protect the Earth's natural resources.
The first Earth Day was officially celebrated in 1970 in the United States, and has since become a large-scale event. This year, the main emphasis is on tackling the climate crisis, reducing plastic pollution, and protecting animals. Many environmental organizations around the world run campaigns, events, and community activities on this day to encourage public behavior change.
In 2026, millions of people, organizations, and governments worldwide will once again join the global action.
Earthday.org, the official Earth Day website, displays a real-time map of over 10,000 worldwide events taking place on and around Earth Day, ranging from exhibitions and fashion shows featuring recycled accessories to community cleanup activities, teach-ins, tree planting, beach cleaning, and peaceful demonstrations for green legislation.
"Every action strengthens the movement. Add your event to the map and show the power of collective," invites the organization.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also, as usual, shared "actions, information, and updates about how YOU can celebrate Earth Day," while offering tips on how to contribute directly.
Photo: EPA