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All About Earth Day

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Earth Day is here! It takes place each year on April 22. The first Earth Day was 50 years ago. People celebrate by doing things that help protect the planet. Read on to learn more. How will you celebrate?

Back in Time

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The first Earth Day was in 1970. In the United States, millions celebrated. Some cleaned up parks. Others recycled recycle MEDIAPRODUCTION/GETTY IMAGES to make something new from something that has already been used (verb) The sneakers are made from recycled plastic bottles. . Lots of people helped out.

Speaking Up for Change

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People come together on Earth Day. They ask leaders for change. People in government government JOE SOHM—VISIONS OF AMERICA/GETTY IMAGES" the people who make decisions for a country, state, city, etc. (noun) The president is the head of the United States government. can pass laws to protect our land, air, and water.

A Global Event

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Today, people all over the world celebrate Earth Day. These children in China are doing an art project. They are painting a big picture of the Earth.

Lending a Hand

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There are many things you can do with friends and family this Earth Day. Volunteer volunteer FATCAMERA—GETTY IMAGES to do something without being forced or paid to do it (verb) I volunteer at an animal shelter on weekends. in your community. Plant a tree or clean up a park. Do your part to help the planet!

Try It!

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You can make a difference by writing a letter. Write to leaders in your town, state, or country. Let them know what issues you care about.