Today marks 49 years of Earth Day celebrations worldwide. April 22nd is a day that brings communities together to recognize the global impacts we make on the environment and how we can work together to create more sustainable practices. This year’s theme is the protection of endangered species. There are so many ways to make a difference today, even while you’re on vacation!
History of Earth Day
To begin with, the modern environmental movement of Earth Day was initiated on April 22nd, 1970. Founder Gaylord Nelson, a former U.S. Senator from Wisconsin had the idea for the national holiday after witnessing the massive oil spill in Santa Barbara in 1969. Generally, falling between spring break and final exams made the date a perfect fit to engage students and teachers across America.
The first-ever Earth Day was a celebration of over 20 million Americans in coast-to-coast rallies. It brought together divided political parties, social classes and leaders to bring awareness to one issue that affects us all.
2020 will mark 50 years of advocacy for the environment under Earth Day, and is now an international event with increased urgency as the environment continues to decline. The network believes that more than 1 billion people across 192 countries now take part in the largest day of action in the world.
As a result of Earth day, there have been:
- 1 million voters registered
- 2 billion “Acts of Green”
- Hundreds of millions of trees planted in 32 countries
- Green Ribbon Schools Program to recognize schools that reduce environmental impacts and costs
Going on Vacation During the Celebration? Participate in Earth Day Activities!
In the United States, there are over a dozen cities that will be coordinating Earth Day activities and volunteer cleanups. While the challenges we face today with the environment will need global policy changes, there are so many things that every individual can do to make a difference. If you live near, or are going to be vacationing at any of the following locations – volunteer at a Community Cleanup!
Honolulu, HI
Cleanup Location: 41-415 Hihimanu Street, Waimanalo, HI 96795
Resorts nearby:
- HGV Club Hilton Hawaiian Village (40 minutes away)
- Wyndham Vacation Resorts Royal Garden Waikiki (40 minutes away)
Las Vegas, NV
Cleanup Location: 2601 E Sunset Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89120
Resorts Nearby:
- Elara Hilton Grand Vacations (15 minutes away)
- Tahiti Village (15 minutes away)
- Wyndham Grand Desert (15 minutes away)
Miami, FL
Cleanup Location: Biscayne Bay
Resort Nearby: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Plaza (30 minutes away)
Phoenix, AZ
Cleanup Location: 21 West Main Street Mesa, AZ 85201
Resort Nearby: Shell Vacations Club Legacy Golf Resort (20 minutes away)
San Francisco, CA
Cleanup Location: 33 New Montgomery St., San Francisco, CA 95814
Resort Nearby: Ritz Carlton San Francisco (6 minutes away)
Earth Day Tips and What You Can Do Year-Round
It can feel like a drop in the ocean when we try to be more sustainable or eco-conscious. However, if everyone was following through on their environmental goals, imagine the waves that would be made. Simple Earth Day tips can be followed through on, even while you’re on vacation.
Planning Your Next Trip?
Read up on more popular vacation destinations, vacation ownership clubs and all the inside information on all things timeshare.
