The most Wonderful Day of the Year!!

Happy Earth Day, Everyone!! It is Simon and Oliver's favorite day, and they will be celebrating with all of their friends!

Earth Day is an annual event, to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It all started on this day, in 1970. President Richard Nixon, and First Lady Pat Nixon, planted a tree on the White House South lawn, to recognize the first Earth Day. United States Senator, Gaylord Nelson, proposed the idea to hold a nationwide environmental "Teach-In", on April 22nd, 1970. Denis Hayes, an environmental activist, was hired as the national coordinator.

Hayes grew the event beyond the original idea, and the support was incredible! The United Auto Workers labor leader, Walter Reuther, joined the cause, and became an instrumental supporter! Many events take place globally now, to honor the Earth, and the concept of PEACE.

In 1990, Denis Hayes took Earth Day International, and organized events in 141 nations. At present, Earth Day week actions focus on environmental issues that the world faces. With Earth Day now an annual observance and movement, concerns around clean air, clean water, and pesticide use, are now part of public consciousness. The EPA passed legislation aimed at cleaning up the nations air, water, and natural resources.

Let's focus now on the animals that we share our planet with. They play a crucial role in maintaining the health of our planet. They act as ecosystem engineers, plant pollinators, and provide much of the oxygen that we breathe. We need to not only protect our animal species, but also help them thrive in their natural habitats so they can carry out their CRITICAL climate functions. It is a known fact, that a single animal can mean the difference between survival or extinction, for an entire species! Animals keep our environment balanced, and healthy!

Earth Day is a wonderful reminder that we can create real change in our communities, and within ourselves. How wonderful would it be to know that our oceans were free from pollution... that our wildlife populations were flourishing... that our forest ecosystems were thriving! Supporting wildlife conservation initiatives, is one of the best ways to help protect our animals, safeguard the natural world, and help drive systemic change.

We can all start small. Organize a local event. Choose sustainable products. Promote biodiversity in our gardens. Be more conscious of our diets. My favorite is visiting conservation areas, and sanctuaries. Spending time in nature, is medicine for the soul. Let's all become advocates for our planet, and the beautiful creatures we share it with!