The first-ever Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970, marking the beginning of a movement that changed the way we think about our planet.
This year, in 2025, we celebrate its 55th anniversary—alongside GreenCitizen’s 20th anniversary of working towards a greener future.
But why does Earth Day matter?
Before the 1960s, environmental concerns were largely ignored. Pollution was rampant, and industries dumped toxic waste without consequences. Then, in 1962, Rachel Carson’s book Silent Spring sparked national awareness by exposing the dangers of pesticides.
By 1970, the urgency for change had reached a tipping point. Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson and San Francisco activist John Connell rallied Americans to join grassroots demonstrations. The response was staggering—20 million people took to the streets, demanding environmental action. Their voices led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and a wave of landmark environmental laws.
More than five decades later, Earth Day remains a powerful reminder that small actions can lead to big change. Our planet is showing clear signs of distress, and we need inspiration more than ever. That’s why I’m sharing 33 Earth Day quotes that motivate me to do better for our shared home—along with some practical Earth Day tips for you.
I hope you find them just as inspiring and share them with your loved ones.