Earth Day 2011
In 1970 smog choked major U.S. cities and toxic waste flooded rivers. That same year nearly 20 million Americans participated in events on April 22, spearheaded by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson, to draw attention to the environmental issues plaguing the planet and human health. Named Earth Day, April 22 has remained a time to celebrate restoration and stand up for the planet.
More About Earth Day
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The Truth About Earth Day 2011
This year a billion are expected to mark Earth Day, which some suspect is anti-capitalist. Go behind the subject of today's Google Doodle.
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Earth Day Facts
From not-so-humble beginnings in 1970, when 20 million participated, Earth Day has grown into a global tradition. Find out when it is, how it started, and what you can do.
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20 Great Earth Day Pictures
Auroras, glaciers, and gullies feature among the most stunning pictures of Earth from space, chosen by National Geographic photo editors for Earth Day 2011.
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Sustainability at National Geographic
The National Geographic Society aims to be an international leader for global conservation and environmental sustainability. Learn more about the Society's green philosophy and initiatives.
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On TV for Earth Day: 12,000-Bottle Boat
Follow the extraordinary journey of the Plastiki, a boat built from over 12,000 recycled plastic bottles, as adventurer David De Rothschild attempts to sail across the Pacific from San Francisco to Sydney.
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How Has Earth Day Evolved?
When Earth Day turned 40 last year, National Geographic News took a look at how the once-grassroots Earth Day is now taking root on the Web.
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Earth Day Tips: For the Planet and You
Learn some tips for things you can do on Earth Day (and every day) to improve the environment.
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Earth Day Stunts
An undersea cleaning party and the world's largest baked Alaska join the ranks of oddball events held on Earth Days past.
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Spring Cleaning
Give your home a green makeover with Green Guide's new room-by-room interactive, with tips, quizzes, and calculators to help you cut down on energy consumption, water use, and waste.
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School Greening Contest Winners
See the winners of the "Find Your Footprint" competition. The winning ideas will help schools reduce waste and save water and energy.
Test Your Earth IQ
Environment News
- U.S. Oil Fields Stage "Great Revival," But No Easing Gas Prices
- Lake Vostok Breached
- "Porta Potty" Flower Found
- Bubble Curtains: Can They Dampen Offshore Energy Sound for Whales?
- Photos: "Monster" Crustaceans Found
- Iran's Undisputed Weapon: Power to Block the Strait of Hormuz
- Antarctic Lake Nearly Breached
- Antarctic Crack = NYC-Size Iceberg
Books and DVDs
The World's Water
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Light Bulb Savings Calculator
How much can you save yourself, and the world, by switching to more efficient bulbs?
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Can Bubble Curtains Help Whales?
Oil and wind power companies are testing a novel technology—air bubbles—to shield marine mammals from the sound of offshore operations.
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The Ocean
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Oceans
Learn about making the right seafood choices, get inspired by our ocean heroes, and get tips on how you can help save the ocean.
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Seafood Decision Guide
Learn how to eat healthy while lowering your seafood footprint.
The Great Energy Challenge
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Light Bulb Savings Calculator
How much can you save yourself, and the world, by switching to more efficient bulbs?
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Can Bubble Curtains Help Whales?
Oil and wind power companies are testing a novel technology—air bubbles—to shield marine mammals from the sound of offshore operations.
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The World's Water
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Visualizing Our Global Water Footprint
You might be surprised to see how the daily choices you make affect critical watersheds around the world.
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Why Care About Water?
National Geographic's freshwater initiative is a global effort to inspire communities to conserve water and restore rivers.
National Geographic Magazine
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Photos: In the Field
Browse breathtaking images of life on the Serengeti.
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A Thing or Two About Twins
Can the unique bond between identical twins be explained?
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Visions of Earth
Browse stunning images of our planet as seen through a photographer's eye.
