Today is Earth Day!

Earth day is a nationally recognized holiday as an appreciation of the earth’s atmosphere. It had been observed since 1960 in the United States and several other countries on April 22 every year. An article in the New York Times said in 1969 that the "Rising concern about the environmental crisis is sweeping the nation's campuses with an intensity that may be on its way to eclipsing student discontent over the war in Vietnam...a national day of observance of environmental problems...is being planned for next spring...when a nationwide environmental 'teach-in'...coordinated from the office of Senator Gaylord Nelson is planned...." The first earth day had over 2,000 colleges and universities participating in the awareness 20 million Americans in all. Earth Day has become more and more popular as we find more of the affects that we are having on our planet. Earth Day 2007 was one of the largest Earth Days to date, with an estimated billion people participating in the activities in thousands of places around the world.

There have been many effects of Earth day. Some of them are Arbor Day, Sierra Club and others. Chico State University is also taking action to recognize the earth’s atmosphere. Chico State held an event called Eco-Fest. Eco-Fest is a free festival that promotes environmental and social awareness. It was held on April 19^th from noon to 6pm Kendall Lawn. Representatives there spoke about our impact on the world and how we can change to make a difference. Lisa Pickard, (getting her master's in environmental) was there and brought our attention to the Pacific leatherback sea turtle that are facing extinction by fishermen’s longlines. There have been reports of over 40,000 sea turtles killed this way. She stated that if everyone put in a little time to voice their opinion, we could make a huge difference on this planet.

There are many other events Chico State is holding in response to earth day. Another is Lassen and Shasta halls competed to see who could use the least amount of energy in a week. On April 22 in the BMU Auditorium is the College of Natural Sciences Poster Symposium. This event is open event highlights research conducted by College of Natural Sciences faculty and students. Another is 60 Earth Hour. This campaign is aimed to reduce carbon emissions by making a collaborative effort and statement by turning off your lights for one hour. Another one is a Recycled Art show. There are many more events that are held today on the Chico Ste campus that shows the importance of how we can make a difference.