Embrace Our Beautiful Planet and Our Shared Responsibility to Protect it

50 years ago, the EPA did not exist, which meant there was no Clean Air Act, no Clean Water Act, and no legal regulatory mechanism to protect our environment. This all changed in April 1970 when Senator Gaylord Nelson created Earth Day as a way to force this issue onto the national agenda. Twenty million Americans demonstrated in different U.S. cities, and it worked! In December 1970, Congress authorized the creation of a new federal agency to tackle environmental issues, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Now, each year on April 22, people all around the world come together on Earth Day to celebrate the planet's environment and raise public awareness about pollution. 

• The Conservation Fund: The Conservation Fund strives to protect our nation’s land, water, and wildlife by finding positive, lasting solutions to conserve these precious resources and species, and to achieve environmental and economic outcomes. Learn more.
• Rails-to-Trails: Since 1986, Rails-to-Trails has worked from coast to coast, supporting the development of thousands of miles of rail-trails for millions to explore and enjoy, and to build healthier places for healthier people. April 13, 2019 kicked off the spring trail season and people celebrated by hitting their favorite trails for a walk, run, ride and special events to keep our trails clean. Learn more.
• Population Connection: Each year, the world population grows by nearly 80 million people. Through Population Connection's programs, events, and member advocacy efforts, they are working to increase awareness about the many environmental and social implications of rapid population growth. Learn more.
• Lions Club International Foundation: The Foundation is dedicated to helping Lions nationwide take on large-scale projects that will create a sustainable and healthy future for generations to come. From recycling programs to ensuring all areas have access to clean water, they're working hard to keep the earth in its best condition. Learn more.
• Feeding America: Food waste is a pressing issue in our country, both at a commercial and consumer level. Not only does excessive food waste hit us hard in our bank accounts, it has a huge impact on the environment that we all share. Over 20% of landfill volume is comprised of food waste and 21% of all fresh water used goes toward the production of food that ends up being discarded. Learn some steps you can take to keep your food fresh and fight food waste.

​How to Join Us for Earth Day 2019 :

• Follow us on Twitter and Facebook as we share how our members’ specific programs are working to protect our environment. 

• Donate & raise money for these nonprofits. America's Charities is proud of the work our member charities do in these respective areas. One of the most cost-efficient ways you can support these nonprofits is to donate to them via payroll deduction through your employer's workplace giving program (Don't have a program? Click here to have your employer contact our team.) Click on each charity's name above to learn more about their work, and to make a donation now!