 by Christie Whitman Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency April 22, 2002
This outpouring of popular support forced America to begin to pay attention to the environmental degradation of our shared planet and the response was immediate and decisive. The first Earth Day demonstration gave birth to an annual celebration, urged President Nixon to establish the Environmental Protection Agency, and began a national movement to correct decades of environmental damage. Since this first Earth Day 32 years ago, we have made enormous strides in cleaning up our environment and preventing additional pollution - and this year the progress continues. President Bush recently announced the Clear Skies proposal that will significantly reduce air pollution across our country, improve the health of our families - especially children, and reduce haze and smog in our cities and national parks. In addition, state and local governments, forward-thinking businesses, energetic environmental groups, and spirited individuals all throughout America are at the forefront of some of the most creative, innovative, and effective efforts to improve the condition of the environment in their communities. In partnership with the federal government, these efforts will bring us the next generation of environmental improvement. Of course, Earth Day is only a reminder of the commitment we have as stewards of the environment all year long. You can learn more about the Clear Skies Initiative and Earth Day activities on EPA 's Earth Day Website. This site highlights ways that individuals, communities and businesses can help improve the environment for future generations. 32 years ago, participants in the first Earth Day passed along an opportunity for each of us to make a difference for the world. As we celebrate their legacy on Earth Day this year, we can all do a little bit more - as they did - to make our Earth a better place for our children and grandchildren.
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Thirty-two years ago, more than
20 million Americans gathered together for one of the most spectacular
environmental demonstrations in our history. On April 22, 1970,
a well organized group of concerned citizens altered the course
of our Nation - giving the environment, and everyone who cared
for it, a voice in our national dialogue.