Sacramento, CA – The first celebration of Earth Day took place in 1970, sparking a global movement where around 20 million individuals actively protested against environmental neglect by participating in rallies across their communities. By 2024, Earth Day has grown to become the most significant yearly civic event worldwide. On this internationally acknowledged day, Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) promotes environmental care by providing free transportation across all its services.
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“To do our part and encourage residents to go green, SacRT is offering free rides on fixed-route buses, light rail, and SacRT GO paratransit services. No flyer is needed, just board and enjoy your trip!” the agency said on its website.
Additionally, SacRT mentioned that the Environmental Council of Sacramento is organizing its yearly Build Green event at Southside Park, which runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Sunday. Free transportation to this event is available through SacRT, though participants need to show a flyer to receive free entry.
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What is Earth Day?
Earth Day, celebrated each year on April 22, promotes the protection of the environment globally. The first Earth Day was organized by EarthDay.org in 1970. The nonprofit emphasizes that Earth Day serves as a call to action for the conservation and sustainability of the environment. For Earth Day 2024, the focus is on combating plastic pollution with the theme “Planet vs. Plastics.”
“For Earth Day 2024 on April 22nd, EARTHDAY.ORG is unwavering in our commitment to end plastics for the sake of human and planetary health, demanding a 60% reduction in the production of ALL plastics by 2040,” the nonprofit said. “Let’s unite in our efforts to protect the Earth today and for generations to come…together, we can make a meaningful impact and create a more sustainable world.”
In California, efforts to reduce plastic usage have been ongoing. The most recent initiative was on February 8, when Senator Catherine Blakespear introduced a legislation aimed at banning plastic shopping bags by 2026.
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“We are literally choking our planet with plastic waste,” Blakespear said on Feb. 8 during a news conference at California’s Capitol.
The economic toll of plastic pollution is also significant. As per the California Ocean Protection Council, since 2015, communities in California have been spending over $428 million a year on managing and mitigating plastic pollution. This illustrates the financial benefits that could arise from addressing this environmental issue.