Protecting the planet is a year-round responsibility, and that obligation is emphasized each April 22 when the world celebrates Earth Day. In 1969, an oil spill in California killed thousands of sea animals and contributed to significant ocean pollution. This environmental disaster inspired Gaylord Nelson and Denis Hayes to establish Earth Day in 1970 as a global event to raise awareness of environmental issues.

Every year on Earth Day around a billion people are motivated to take steps to protect the planet. Families may work together to do their part.

Families may decide to clean up litter in their neighborhoods. Litter in streets or parks can end up in waterways after being carried into storm drains by rain or wind, according to the Marine Debris Program. A 2016 report from the United Nations found that nearly 50% of cetacean and seabird species have ingested litter. Picking up litter from local neighborhoods is a relatively easy way for families to do their part on Earth Day.

Families can learn about their carbon footprints and how their lifestyle choices affect the environment. One way to cut down on carbon emissions is to walk or bike to school and to skip the car whenever possible.

Visiting a local park or wildlife habitat is also a possible activity. Doing so will provide an opportunity for families to experience the beauty of nature and be reminded about humankind's responsibility to protect habitats and wildlife. When visiting, it is important to stick to trails and leave no trace behind.

Individuals can turn old T-shirts and other clothing into reusable cloth shopping bags. The internet offers various no-sew project instructions for turning old clothing that is no longer worn into something Earth-friendly.

Families may also plant more greenery. It does not have to be a tree, but families may visit a garden center to purchase seeds, seedlings, or full-grown shrubbery to enhance their landscapes with more Earth-friendly plants. CO2METER, a carbon dioxide monitoring website, says plants and trees, combined with oceans, remove about 45% of the carbon dioxide emitted by human activities each year. A typical hardwood tree can absorb as much as 48 pounds of carbon dioxide per year.

On Earth Day, families may plan meals together that feature in-season foods purchased at a local organic farmers market.

Earth Day is a time when families may work together to help protect and preserve the planet.