The very first Earth Day was April 22, 1970. Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin wanted to make environmental issues politically important and organized the first Earth Day celebrations. It was a day of action and education that brought different environmental groups together. They were worried about pollution, oil spills, pesticides, the loss of wilderness, and wildlife extinction.
Fast-forward to Earth Day 2014 and these issues still remain along with many others.
Environmental organization’s voices are getting stronger and the public continues to “go green,” but there is still so much left to do. This Earth Day stand up for the environment and join Earthshare New Jersey members across the state at their Earth Day events and activities. See the links below for more information on how you can participate!
Join the American Littoral Society for Earth Day in Jamaica Bay, featuring a Refuge Walk and community cleanup of Sunset Cove and American Park. More information
Participate in Clean Ocean Action’s annual Beach Sweeps on April 26 and help clean up New Jersey’s shoreline. More information
Head over to Overpeck Park with Hackensack Riverkeeper for EarthFest Overpeck on April 26. Enjoy live music, food, children’s activities, a recycled regatta, and more. More information
The NY-NJ Trail Conference has trail cleanups and hikes planned for April 26 and 27. More information
Check out the Pinelands Preservation Alliance’s Native Plant Sale, take a nature walk through Whitesbog Village, or head over their table at the Earth Day Celebration in Smithville Park. More information
Conserve Wildlife Foundation and Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge are participating in the Atlantic County Utilities Authority’s Earth Day Festival on April 27. More information