This month, Clean Air Northeast Florida is dedicating a special edition of our newsletter to Earth Day 2025—a time to reflect on our connection to the environment and take action for a healthier planet.

Across Northeast Florida, communities are coming together to celebrate, clean up, and learn more about protecting our natural spaces. Whether participating in a beach cleanup, attending a sustainability-focused event, or making small changes at home, your efforts make a difference.

Inside this edition, you'll find:

• Earth Day celebrations happening across Northeast Florida
• Volunteer opportunities to get involved in cleanups and conservation efforts
• Ways to connect with nature, from guided walks to self-paced exploration

Earth Day is more than just one day—it’s a movement that reminds us of the power of small actions to create big change. However you choose to celebrate, we encourage you to stay engaged with Clean Air Northeast Florida by supporting local initiatives, participating in future events, and helping build a more sustainable and resilient community

Sincerely,

Ashantae Green 

Sustainability Manager 

City of Jacksonville 

greena@coj.net

Earth Day began on April 22, 1970, as a nationwide effort to raise awareness about environmental issues. It brought together millions of people from different backgrounds who shared a common goal—protecting the natural world. The movement helped spark new environmental initiatives, and today, Earth Day is recognized in over 190 countries, making it one of the largest global observances.

This year marks the 55th Earth Day, reflecting its lasting impact and a reminder of the ongoing efforts to care for the environment and support sustainable communities.

Did You Know?

Earth Day was inspired by nationwide activism.

Senator Gaylord Nelson and graduate student Denis Hayes saw the growing public engagement around social issues and believed the environment needed similar attention. They organized Earth Day to encourage public involvement in environmental awareness and action.

The first Earth Day in 1970 drew 20 million participants.

About 10% of the U.S. population participated in rallies, teach-ins, and community events, making it one of the largest public demonstrations in history.

The date was chosen to engage college students.

Nelson and Hayes selected April 22 because it fell between spring break and final exams, making it easier for students—who were highly engaged in social issues at the time—to participate.

Earth Day helped lead to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

In response to the growing environmental movement, the U.S. government established the EPA in December 1970 to oversee air and water quality, pollution control, and environmental regulations.

In 1990, Earth Day became a global movement.

More than 200 million people in 141 countries joined efforts to promote environmental awareness and recycling initiatives worldwide.

Earth Day now engages over 1 billion people annually.

It has grown into the largest civic observance in the world, with events focused on sustainability, conservation, and community action.

Over the years, Earth Day has continued to inspire individuals and communities to take action in ways that work best for them—whether through conservation, education, or small everyday changes that help create a healthier environment..

Earth Day is a time for communities to come together and take action for a healthier planet. Across Northeast Florida, local organizations are hosting festivals, interactive experiences, and educational events to inspire awareness and engagement. Whether you’re looking to enjoy live music, learn about conservation, or take home a free tree, these events offer something for everyone.

One of the most direct ways to make a difference this Earth Day is by removing litter from local beaches, parks, and waterways. Cleanups help protect wildlife, improve air and water quality, and create a healthier environment. Get involved in one of these volunteer opportunities and be part of the solution.

Earth Day is just one day, but the movement continues year-round. Stay engaged with Clean Air Northeast Florida by following us on social media, attending future events, and finding ways to integrate sustainability into your daily life. Together, we can keep our air clean, water healthy, and communities thriving.