By M.Buie (FSWC Educator)

Earth Day is an annual international event celebrated on April 22 to raise awareness of environmental issues and to call people to action.

When did public recognition for important environmental issues begin? In 1962, Rachel Carson published Silent Spring, which documented the harmful effects of pesticides on the environment, publicizing the issue in an unprecedented way. Later, in January 1969, the United States suffered a massive oil spill in California. In response, Senator Gaylord Nelson, who was inspired by the anti- Vietnam War movement, began organizing a “teach-in” about the dangers of water and air pollution. Denis Hayes, a young activist appointed by Nelson to organize the teach-ins, saw the potential to inspire Americans to celebrate and take responsibility for the environment. Thus, the first Earth Day took place on April 22, 1970.

This year’s Earth Day theme in Canada is “Open Your Eyes to Protect Biodiversity.” According to the Earth Day website, biodiversity is essential for ecosystem balance, food security, and even resilience to climate change. The goal this year is to encourage people to reconnect with nature and better understand the importance of a well-balanced ecosystem.

How can you celebrate Earth Day in your classroom? Thankfully, the official Earth Day Canada website has a plethora of activity ideas, resources and even games to explore! Organize a bioblitz with your students to discover the different species of animals that live around you. Then, using the iNaturalist app, share your findings with others around Canada. Have your class participate in creating a space to protect biodiversity , such as setting up bird feeders or installing a turtle nest protector. Play this online game from the Earth Day website to identify endangered species across Canada. This April, no matter how your class decides to participate, challenge your students to find small ways to help make a big impact in preserving our Earth.

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