Ankara: Earth Day 2026, observed on April 22 every year under the theme 'Our Power, Our Planet,' is being marked on Wednesday worldwide with calls for stronger action to tackle climate change and environmental degradation.

According to Anadolu Agency, first observed in 1970, Earth Day has grown into the world's largest civic event, with more than 1 billion people participating annually across over 180 countries through thousands of activities promoting sustainability and environmental awareness.

The 2026 theme emphasized that environmental progress is continuing despite global policy uncertainty, driven by innovation, education, and community action. Local systems such as cities, schools, and communities are playing a key role in strengthening energy reliability, conserving resources, and reducing environmental risks, according to Earth Day organizers.

The day comes as the planet faces increasing threats from climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, including an estimated 19-23 million tons of plastic waste entering aquatic ecosystems each year and the equivalent of 2,000 truckloads of plastic dumped into waterways daily, according to the UN.

In his message for International Mother Earth Day 2026, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the day serves as a reminder of 'the fragility of our world,' urging urgent global action to confront the climate crisis. He called for an end to dependence on fossil fuels, an acceleration of the renewable energy transition, stronger protection and restoration of nature, and the delivery of climate justice for vulnerable communities.