 | | Pictured: A crowd gathers to celebrate Earth Day at the Capitol, Washington, D.C. |
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On Earth Day, falling on April 22 in the United States and on the vernal or autumnal equinox internationally (March 21 in 2007), people throughout the world reflect on the importance of the global environment and reaffirm their commitment to living in harmony and respect with nature and each other.
The brainchild of American missionary and social reformer John McConnell, Earth Day was first celebrated on March 20, 1970, in San Francisco and other cities and was soon endorsed by UN Secretary General U Thant, Margaret Mead, and many other international dignitaries. It has since become one of the world's most widely celebrated non-religious holidays. Today, as the world faces environmental problems of unprecedented severity, the message of Earth Day is perhaps more vital than it has ever been. In honor of the holiday, Britannica presents a selection of its coverage of topics related to the environment.
Philosophical, Legal, and Scientific Background
Although pollution and soil conservation were problems faced by Europe and Asia over 2,000 years ago, these environmental issues did not give rise to the widespread public activism and education that we see today in the following areas:
Major Environmental Problems
Environmental concerns are not a recent phenomenon, as globalization and industrialization over the last half-century has contributed to the following environmental issues:
Individuals and Groups
Get the background behind the people and organizations who have commited themselves to the advancement of environmental causes:
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Among signers of the Earth Day Proclamation, originally issued by San Francisco Mayor Joseph Alioto in 1970, are American astronaut Buzz Aldrin, American science fiction writer Isaac Asimov, and former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev.
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Smog formation and entrapment over Los Angeles.
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Explore Britannica’s Reflections on the Holocaust
As we mark the Days of Remembrance, you can explore Encyclopædia Britannica’s Spotlight: Reflections on the Holocaust. This feature is divided into five parts, covering everything from the origins of the Holocaust in the mind of Adolf Hitler to the legacy of the horror in art and memory. Long-debated controversies are discussed, such as why the Allies chose not to bomb Hitler's death camps, as well as the actions of the Roman Catholic Church, and of Pope Pius XII in particular, during the years of the Holocaust.
This Spotlight includes extensive photographs and videos (warning: some of them are graphic), an extended bibliography, and discussion questions tied to each of the five parts that have been written especially for teachers to use in the classroom.
Explore it today 
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2007 Compton's by Britannica
Written and visually designed for students ages 10 to 17, the 2007 Compton's by Britannica has been thoroughly reviewed, updated, and revised by educators, expert contributors, and Britannica editors. With over 50% new and revised content since 2004, Compton's is ideal for middle school and high school aged students.
When you order the 2007 Compton's by Britannica, Britannica will also include New Views of the Solar System as a free gift! New Views of the Solar System looks at scientists’ changing perspectives on the solar system. Brilliant photos and drawings provide a stunning collection of vivid and detailed images. This 112 page hardcover volume is a perfect companion to the Compton’s by Britannica set.
Order the 2007 Compton's by Britannica now for only $699, and get free S&H and the free gift. Please mention the promotion code APRIL when ordering.
Call Britannica at 1-800-621-3900 or go online to www.eb.com/order to place your order now. | |
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