Earth Day: a renewed call to protect the environment and human rights

Earth Day: a renewed call to protect the environment and human rights

Published April 22, 2026

Today, 22 April, marks Earth Day, a global moment that brings together millions of people to reflect on the state of the planet and the responsibility to protect it.

First observed in 1970, Earth Day grew from a grassroots initiative in the United States. As reported in an article by Giacomo Talignani published in La Repubblica today, the movement originated in 1969 when Senator Gaylord Nelson launched an educational initiative to raise awareness on environmental degradation, following major incidents such as oil spills in California. The date of 22 April was chosen to engage young people, and the initiative quickly evolved into a global event recognised by the United Nations.

The article highlights that, more than fifty years later, environmental challenges have intensified. Climate change continues to affect the planet, driven by emissions and unsustainable use of resources. Biodiversity loss, pressures on water and energy systems, and environmental degradation are increasingly evident. Efforts to address these challenges remain ongoing, with international discussions focusing on energy transition, emissions reduction, and environmental protection.

Talignani also points to delays in global agreements, including ongoing negotiations on ocean protection, plastic reduction, and deforestation. At the same time, there are examples of progress. Several countries are expanding investment in renewable energy, with increased use of solar and wind power demonstrating that alternative and more sustainable energy models are achievable.

The article places strong emphasis on the role of communities. The 2026 theme, “Our power, our planet”, reflects the importance of public participation in shaping environmental outcomes. Across different countries, initiatives continue to take place at local level. These include educational events, clean-up activities in urban spaces and coastal areas, and awareness campaigns aimed at promoting responsible environmental behaviour. Such initiatives show how collective action can contribute to wider environmental goals.

The link between environmental protection and human rights has also been increasingly recognised. During a high-level conference in Prishtina in December 2025, the Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, highlighted that climate change is no longer a distant concern but a present reality with direct consequences on the enjoyment of fundamental rights.

He stressed that the effects of climate change should fall within the scope of oversight institutions, as they directly impact people’s lives. He emphasised that the protection of the environment is closely linked to the protection of human rights and that institutions have a responsibility to ensure that these concerns are addressed.

Referring to the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice of 23 July 2025 on climate change, the Ombudsman underlined that states have an obligation to protect the environment and act with due diligence. The Opinion also recognised that the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is essential for the enjoyment of other human rights.

Earth Day therefore reinforces a clear message. Protecting the environment is not only a matter of sustainability. It is also a matter of rights, responsibility, and good governance. It calls for continued commitment at institutional level and active participation within communities to ensure that environmental protection remains a shared priority.