TODAY WE celebrate Earth Day. It is a day that attempts to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth’s natural environment. Those attempts have been met with resounding success over the past four-plus decades.

Its roots run deep, founded by US Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin as an environmental teach-in first held on April 22, 1970. Earth Day began as an American event but has since transformed into a global celebration over the course of the past two decades.

We find it refreshing and rewarding that Earth Day continues to grow in stature, as it brings a positive and much-needed spotlight on the well-being of our surroundings.

Activities are held throughout the world to commemorate the day. The Ohio Valley is not excluded from celebration with many events scheduled to unfold locally.

The Earth Day Network has established a viable theme for the 45th edition of Earth Day. The network has stamped today, “It Is Our Time to Lead.” If we do that, hopefully everyone follows to help preserve our environment.

“Going Green” is no longer a slogan but rather a way of life. People in record numbers are realizing that we must live in environmentally friendly fashion. Proper care of the earth is no longer a luxury but rather a necessity.

Today is a day we come to realize our deep appreciation for the Earth and how best to ensure its healthy future. April 22 is the official commemoration of Earth Day, but it is one which needs to be replayed day in and day out.