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GRAND ISLAND — The first Earth Day was in 1970, according to earthday.org. U.S. Sen. Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin had an idea for Earth Day, and he recruited Denis Hayes, a young activist, to organize campus events. They chose April 22, which fell between spring break and finals week. Hayes built a national staff of 85 people to promote Earth Day.
The first Earth Day led to the formation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
For Earth Day 2024, earthday.org is demanding a 60 percent reduction in the production of all plastics by 2040.
At the Calvin T. Ryan Library at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, the library is having a plant giveaway for people who would like a plant in their dorm, office, or home. Total amount of plants for the giveaway is currently unknown but we are hoping for at least 30. There will be additional events going on during the week: trivia and coloring contest.
The Grand Island campus of Central Community College will host Earth Day activities from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 23. Activity and resource tables will be set up along the 200-300 wing hallway between the bookstore and the Grand Central Cafe. A spring picnic lunch will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 23 There will be a candle making event that allows students to take their own handmade candles home. Jars are included, and you will have the option to choose the colors and scent for your candle. The tables set up along the hallway will host community resources from repair services to help with specific needs such as addiction, housing or financial assistance.
