International Mother Earth Day 2017 observed across the world

22 April: International Mother Earth Day

The International Mother Earth Day was observed on 22 April 2017 across the world.

The theme for the year is Environmental & Climate Literacy. This year's theme highlights the fact that education is the foundation for progress. The world today needs a global citizenry fluent in the concepts of climate change and aware of its unprecedented threat to the earth. In addition, environmental and climate literacy is the engine not only for creating green voters and advancing environmental and climate laws and policies but also for accelerating green technologies and jobs.

The International Mother Earth Day recognises that the Earth and its ecosystems provide its inhabitants with life and sustenance.

It also aims to raise awareness that humans have a collective responsibility to promote harmony with nature and to balance the economic, social and environmental needs of present and future generations.

Background

Earth Day was first celebrated in the United States in 1970 and was organised by the Earth Day Network.  Its mission was to broaden and diversify the environmental movement worldwide and to mobilize it as the most effective vehicle to build a healthy, sustainable environment.

However, in 2009 the United Nations General Assembly established the International Mother Earth Day under Resolution A/RES/63/278. The Resolution was introduced by The Plurinational State of Bolivia and was endorsed by over 50 member states.