The Legacy of Earth Day: From Protest to Policy and Beyond
Written on
Chapter 1: A Historical Overview of Earth Day
In the 1970s, the United States was undergoing significant social change. Movements advocating for women’s rights and LGBTQ+ equality were gaining momentum, while protests against the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement were reshaping the political landscape. Yet, despite these advancements, environmental issues like air and water pollution remained pressing concerns.
On April 22, 1970, approximately 20 million Americans — a staggering 10% of the population — took to the streets in a self-organized effort to demand action against environmental degradation. This massive display of civic engagement compelled then-President Richard Nixon to establish the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Fast forward to April 22, 2017, and although the turnout for the March for Science was not as large as in 1970, it underscored the enduring spirit of activism in response to ongoing environmental challenges. The political climate, shaped by far-right policies, had dampened the momentum of progressive movements.
The Roots of Earth Day
Several factors contributed to the rise of the Earth Day movement. One pivotal influence was biologist Rachel Carson, whose groundbreaking book "Silent Spring," published in 1962, exposed the environmental damage caused by pesticides like DDT.
In January 1969, a catastrophic oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, released 200,000 gallons of crude oil into the ocean. Over the next 11 days, the oil slick expanded to cover 800 square miles, shocking the nation and igniting public concern for the environment.
Just a few months later, the Cuyahoga River in Ohio caught fire due to pollution from local steel plants. This incident further fueled public anxiety about environmental degradation.
My understanding of Earth Day’s origins was enriched by the PBS documentary "Poisoned Waters," which aired on April 21, 2009. It highlighted the grassroots environmental movement that pressured Nixon to establish the EPA. Congress even passed the Clean Water Act despite Nixon’s veto, demonstrating the public's demand for change.
Today’s Environmental Challenges
The documentary "Poisoned Waters" not only revisited the environmental activism of the 1970s but also examined the alarming increase in environmental damage today. It focused on critical waterways like Chesapeake Bay and Puget Sound, illustrating how deregulation and corporate practices threaten their health.
Veteran journalist Hedrick Smith guided viewers through the ongoing struggles faced by these water bodies, revealing how agricultural runoff from massive poultry farms contributes to pollution in Chesapeake Bay. Despite the evidence, agribusinesses have successfully lobbied against regulatory measures.
The legacy of the regulatory frameworks established in the 1970s has been increasingly undermined. The Reagan administration's anti-regulatory stance weakened these protections, and the Trump administration has continued this trend, leading to significant environmental setbacks.
As we face a myriad of environmental crises, from climate change to toxic waste, the need for a robust movement advocating for accountability and regulation remains crucial.
A Call to Action
The ongoing pandemic, coupled with the challenges posed by climate change and economic instability, has exacerbated the urgency for environmental advocacy. Under President Trump, efforts to dismantle the EPA and roll back environmental regulations have intensified, igniting public outrage.
In response, the March for Science on April 22, 2017, emerged as a powerful demonstration advocating for science and policy grounded in facts. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, a moment to reflect on past victories and renew our commitment to environmental justice.
The fight for a sustainable future is far from over. As movements like the Global Climate Strike and the protests against the Keystone XL Pipeline demonstrate, public engagement and activism will be critical in shaping the future of our planet. The prospects for the upcoming Earth Day in 2021 hinge on our collective action and unity in the face of adversity.
With the right leadership and a reinvigorated movement, we can hope to restore the hard-fought environmental protections that have been lost. The legacy of Earth Day continues to inspire and challenge us to advocate for the health of our planet and future generations.