Earth Day at Arizona State University

Each April, the world comes together to celebrate our home planet, Earth.

Earth Day was first recognized on April 22, 1970 after the nation and the world witnessed more than 4.2 million gallons of oil spill off of the coast of Santa Barbara, California. The spill spoiled a 35-mile stretch of coastline, killing more than 3,800 birds and causing more than $175 million (adjusted) in damages. The incident helped to establish the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act.

Since then, it has evolved from a grassroots conservation effort into a widespread celebration that is acknowledged worldwide. Billions of people come together each year, drawn together by a set of common values — protecting our environment, creating more sustainable ways of being and keeping our planet healthy. From tree planting events and beach cleanups to speaker series, composting workshops and fashion shows for clothes made from recycled materials, there is no limit to the different ways people choose to celebrate Earth Day.

Historically, this has also been a day for world leaders to come together in consensus over what is necessary to address environmental challenges like climate change. On April 22, 2016, 175 nations signed the Paris Agreement, a binding international treaty on climate change mitigation. What started as a small event in response to an environmental disaster became an impetus for global cooperation and action against a common threat.

At Arizona State University, the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory serves as the hub of activities that honor Earth Day each April. Since 2021, beginning with the dedication of the Walton Center for Planetary Health, ASU and the Global Futures Laboratory have welcomed a variety of celebrated speakers, enthusiastic community members and environmentally conscious students, faculty and staff to our array of Earth Day events. Earth Day may only come around once a year, but our steadfast commitment to creating a sustainable future for all is a year-round endeavor. Join us in our continued pursuit of innovation and adaptation for a healthy, thriving planet.