by Amanda Curran, Class of 2021
all photos courtesy of Abby Boyle, Class of 2021
On April 22, 1970, 10% of the United States population took initiative and participated in protests against environmental ignorance. These protests were extremely effective and led to the development of many environmental laws in the United States. Some examples include The Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts as well as the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Not much later, other countries began to recognize how Americans were effectively handling the environmental crisis and participated in the movement as well. The first Earth Day is considered to be the planet’s largest civic event. April 22, 2020 marked 50 years of celebrating Earth Day. Due to COVID-19, Earth Day could not be celebrated as it typically would. However, while many cities are currently under lockdown, Earth is experiencing a healthy rejuvenation. Countries such as China, Italy, Germany, and the UK have experienced a drastic decline in air pollution. This improves air quality and greatly reduces the risks of asthma, heart attacks, and lung disease. Also, the Venice Canals are now crystal clear due restricted visitation. Reduced human activity in all parts of the world has given nature time to renew itself. It is in times like these, where we must appreciate the beauty of Earth. While we remain indoors and practice social distancing, remember the one of a kind adventure you experienced on Mother Earth.
To learn more about Earth Day and what you can do to help, click here: https://www.earthday.org/earth-day-2020/
THE CAMBRIDGE MATIGNON MIRROR 