Earth Day is April 22. On Earth Day, people do things to help the environment. They clean beaches, recycle cans, bottles, and newspapers, donate money to environmental groups, sign petitions, and teach others about the importance of protecting the environment. Teachers give lessons about the environment to school children. Earth Day was started by Gaylord Nelson in 1970. (3-page lesson)
Who started Earth Day?
Gaylord Nelson started Earth Day on April 22, 1970, when he held a teach-in in Wisconsin.
Nelson was a United States Senator. He represented the state of Wisconsin from 1963-1980.
Who created the Earth Day flag?
John McConnell designed the flag. He used a photo of Earth to remind us to protect the environment.
In 1969, McConnell proposed a holiday to celebrate Earth. Some people consider him the founder or co-founder of Earth Day.