April 22, 2020 marks 50 years of Earth Day in a context of COVID-19 pandemic and global health crisis.

This edition of the Earth Day focuses on the role of biodiversity as an indicator of the Earth’s health. It reminds us that we need to shift to a more sustainable economy that works for both people and the planet. Let’s promote harmony with nature and the Earth.

The impact of the coronavirus is now our priority, but the planet’s unfolding environmental crisis is a second deep emergency. Biodiversity is deteriorating worldwide and climate disruption  is approaching a point of no return. It is estimated that around one million animal and plant species are now threatened with extinction. Educating Cities have to take action to protect citizens from both the coronavirus and to tackle the loss of biodiversity and the threat of climate disruption.

HERE you will find our selection of projects addressing energy saving, protection of natural spaces, sustainable mobility or promotion of sustainable consumption, among other topics.

Other useful resources:

• International Mother Earth Day UN website
• IAEC Monograph “City, Environment and Education”
• Earth Day Network offers a wide range of activities and performances to celebrate the Day: www.earthday.org
• UN Environment Programme
• UN-HABITAT
• ICLEI
• European Environment Agency