Earth Day Is Every Day

Climate change represents the biggest challenge to the future of humanity and the life-support systems that make our world habitable

On Earth Day, April 22, we have two crises: one is the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. The other is a slowly building disaster for our climate. We can, will and must solve both challenges. The world was not prepared for the Coronavirus. But we still have time to prepare for the climate crisis.

While the Coronavirus may force us to keep our distance, it will not force us to keep our voices down. We are apart, but through the power of digital media, we are also more connected than ever.

The theme for Earth Day 2020 is climate action. The enormous challenge — but also the vast opportunities — of action on climate change have distinguished the issue as the most pressing topic for the 50th anniversary.

Over the 24 hours of Earth Day, the 50th anniversary of Earth Day will fill the digital landscape with global conversations, calls to action, performances, video teach-ins and more. Find out more here.

In addition, you are invited to read, share and use our Statement on Sustainability. This paper gives a strong mandate to our elected representatives and will steer our future work in the field.

It is clear by now that the current mode of production and consumption is not sustainable. Without a radical transformation process, we will continue to compromise the prospects of future generations. Because the necessary transformation needs to be science-driven, education institutions play a crucial role.

Young people and students make up almost half of the world’s population and we have a vital role to play in driving the transformation towards a sustainable society. ESU is aware of the necessity to take responsibility, but it cannot solve the problems alone. Urgent action from education institutions, corporations and policymakers on all levels is needed.