The first Earth Day was held on April 22, 1970, in response to growing threats from pollution, including a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara in 1969. An estimated 20 million Americans took part in marches, rallies and teach-ins calling for protection of the environment. This outpouring of support led to the passage of landmark legislation including the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act.? April 22, 2026, marks the 56th anniversary of the first Earth Day, and is observed in hundreds of countries. The theme of is Our Power, Our Planet. The international Earth Day organization reminds us that “Environmental progress is built through everyday action—from communities protecting ecosystems to innovators advancing solutions. Clean air, safe water, and climate resilience aren’t optional—they’re essential.” PCC will celebrate Earth Week from April 20-25, 2026. Activities include tabling fairs on each campus, repair workshops, a beach clean up, work parties and much more. See this year’s full list of events. The city of Portland has adopted the theme Earth in Motion for a month of earth-friendly events. Activities include bike rides, tree walks and plantings, Earth Day fairs, and more. See the calendar . Learn more about our Earth with these research guides developed by PCC librarians: , ,? , , and .