Earth Day origins, raising awareness since 1970

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Earth Day is an annual event, celebrated on April 22, on which events are held worldwide to demonstrate support for environmental protection.

Earth Day was first celebrated in 1970, and is now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network, and celebrated in more than 192 countries each year.



Earth Day was founded by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson as an environmental teach-in first held on April 22, 1970. Nelson was later awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom Award in recognition of his work. 

We invite you to learn more about how Earth Day is being celebrated around the world. Visit EarthDay.org for that information.