Today on April 22nd marks the 49th anniversary of Earth Day! Each year, the Earth Day Network promotes positive ideas in an attempt to change our planet for the better.

Beginning in 1970, Earth Day's purpose gave light to the emerging decision to take action and protect the planet we call home. 20 millions Americans took action, protesting against the negative impacts to nature due to the Industrial Revolution. Since the first celebration of Earth Day, the cause and movement has grown to become a necessary step in environmental change.

Last year, the theme of Earth Day focused on the reduction of plastic pollution among the environment. It was carried out by the promotion of fully recyclable plastics, while putting an end to the usage of single-use plastics. When we think of someone who is using their platform to encourage others to do recycle left and right, Ryan Hickman of Ryan's Recycling is the first name that comes to mind. This 9 Year Old Entrepreneur is passionate about recycling and going green on a global level. His goal to keep cans and bottles from reaching the ocean where it causes harm to the environment was the motivation to start his own recycling business. His story has caught the eye of CNN Young Heroes, The Ellen Show, and Good Morning America.

Ryan's Recycling - 9-Year-Old Entrepreneur Goes Green and then Goes Global! youtu.be

This year's theme revolves around protecting our species. There are 8.7 million species that are populated around our planet and because of human activity, some species have been at risk of extinction. This is as a result of many factors, including climate change, deforestation, habitat loss, unsustainable agriculture, pesticides, and pollution.

Every living thing has a purpose. Bees, coral reefs, giraffes, whales, and elephants are on the verge of becoming endangered. Bees for example, provide one of the most important jobs as they pollinate plants for our ecosystem. Many species also depend on bees for their survival because of their food sources. Berries, nuts, and fruits all rely on insect pollination. On top of that, the global crop production for pollination by bees is valued at $577 billion.

When we saw the newly released music video titled "Earth" released by Lil Dicky, we were excited to hear about a public figure using their platform to shine a light on the pressing global issue. The message reminds us that as humans, we need to be more cautious of the destruction we may be causing Mother Earth. It also reminds us that it may not be too late if we do something now. It also shows a variety of characters such as a Baboon played by Justin Bieber and a Koala played by Ed Sheeran that illustrate the reality of what is happening to the other living beings we share a planet with and how they are affected by our actions. Fortunately, The Earth Day Network has started a campaign entitled "Protect our Species." The main goal is to raise awareness and educate readers about this accelerating rate of extinction and what can be done to help. By demonstrating healthy practices, we can ensure a better tomorrow.

Lil Dicky - Earth (Official Music Video) www.youtube.com

Sources:

https://www.earthday.org/about/the-history-of-earth-day/

https://www.earthday.org/earthday/

https://www.earthday.org/campaigns/endangered-species/earthday2019/

https://welovetheearth.org/