Earth Day

Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 and the weeks surrounding that date.

When the first Earth Day was introduced in 1970, an estimated 20 million Americans participated — almost all of them motivated by a sincere desire to improve or safeguard the environment. A 1969 oil spill resulting from offshore drilling in Santa Barbara provided impetus, helping launch the Earth Day movement in the U.S.

Since the inaugural Earth Day where it all began there has been a rising tide of activism as well as the strictest legislation in the nation regulating engine emissions from cars, factories, containerized ships in ports and even farms. Californians pay some of the highest taxes for refined gas and fuels part of an effort to reduce pollution in a state that typically ranks in top 10 for air pollution.

There has never been a question that Planet Earth experiences cyclical climate changes. The dispute comes from the level of impacts caused by humans and what should be done, if anything.

Many articles have been written charging that Earth Day was conceived as a mechanism to impose authoritarian controls, utilizing an artful public relations campaign to meet such goals.

Like other holidays, Earth Day has taken on a life of its own complete with customs, symbols and ceremonies. With nearly 50 years under its belt the event continues to change and adapt with the communities that support it. Sometimes Earth Day is celebrated with beach, creek and community space clean ups. Or, it may involve a festival with food trucks, music and vendors. There are no set rules but the majority of cities in California do acknowledge Earth Day and generally celebrate it on a weekend -- not providing any holiday time off work for employees.