April 22 sees the 40th Earth Day, The first set up by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1970 as an environmental ‘teach-in’ when efforts would be made to inform the public about environmental issues.
Nowadays, Earth Day of one of two major international annual events to raise awareness and demonstrate concern about eco-issues, the other being the UN-backed World Environment Day which is marked on June 5.
While Earth Day still has a North American leaning, organisers predict that over one billion people in 190 countries will get involved and take some form of action to mark the event this year.
Large-scale tree plantings, exhibitions, green makeovers for schools and mass volunteering are just some of the actions planned.
Celebrations will be taking place around the world, culminating in a high-profile concert in Washington DC at the weekend when musicians such as Sting, Jimmy Cliff, Joss Stone and John Legend will perform at a climate rally.
Full details can be seen on the Earth Day website.
Sam Bond