Celebrating Earth Day and Renewable Energy

Earth Day was first celebrated in the United States on April 22, 1970, born out of the powerful wave of student and social activism that swept across the country in the late 1960s. It marked a pivotal moment in environmental awareness, bringing ecological issues into the national spotlight for the first time.

However, it wasn’t until April 22, 2009, that Earth Day was officially recognised as International Earth Day by the United Nations General Assembly, transforming it into a truly global event.

This nearly 40-year gap between its American origin and international recognition reflects a broader truth: environmental protection did not become a global priority until well into the 21st century, when the effects of climate change, biodiversity loss, and ecological degradation had become impossible to ignore.

Still, there were important milestones along the way. These include:

• The establishment of the United Nations Environment Programme in 1972
• The first Earth Summit was held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992
• The declaration of 2008 as the International Year of Planet Earth

Since then, for the past 55 years, Earth Day has united people across the globe in raising awareness and driving action on the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. From protecting our air, oceans, and soil to preserving ecosystems, wildlife, and human health, Earth Day has been a powerful force for change.

The Earth Day Network’s mission is to empower individuals, communities, and governments to accelerate the shift to renewable energy. Their ambitious goal: to triple the world’s clean energy output by 2030. (SDG 7 – Affordable & Clean Energy)

This year’s Earth Day theme, Our Power, Our Planet, calls on people everywhere to unite behind the global transition to renewable energy. More than just an environmental shift, this movement is also a humanitarian revolution, offering, for the first time in history, the potential to deliver low-cost, virtually unlimited energy to all.

On April 22, thousands of impactful actions are planned across the world—from protecting water and forests to reducing greenhouse gas emissions that drive global warming and climate change. These actions reflect a collective commitment to climate action and the sustainable management of our natural resources. Together, through bold and diverse initiatives, we aim to prevent, halt, and reverse ecosystem degradation—efforts that are crucial for eradicating poverty, fighting climate change, and protecting biodiversity.

Why is Renewable Energy the Focus of Earth Day 2025?

By 2035, countries like the United States could meet their energy needs entirely through renewable sources—365 days a year. This incredible potential is why Earth Day 2025 is calling for the global generation of renewable energy to be tripled by 2030.

Renewable energy is more than just a climate solution—it’s a powerful force for unity. It brings together countries, regions, and communities that may differ politically or economically, highlighting a shared goal: access to clean, affordable, and sustainable energy. Renewable energy offers common ground, proving the transition to a cleaner future can unite us all.

Here’s why Earth Day 2025 is focusing on the shift to renewable energy:

• It’s more affordable than ever. The cost of solar panel production has dropped by an incredible 93% between 2010 and 2020, making clean energy far more accessible worldwide.
• It protects our health. Reducing reliance on fossil fuels cuts air pollution, lowering the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses.
• It boosts the economy. Investing in renewable energy could create up to 14 million new jobs globally, supporting sustainable development while addressing climate change.
• It’s already happening. Nearly 50 countries now generate over half of their electricity from renewable sources, proving a clean energy future is not only necessary—it’s possible.

Earth Day 2025 is a call to action for governments, businesses, and individuals to power our planet sustainably, equitably, and urgently.

How Businesses Can Lead the Way on Earth Day

Looking to align your organisation with Earth Day’s global movement? Businesses of all sizes have a unique opportunity and responsibility to drive meaningful environmental impact. As governments and international bodies set ambitious climate targets, corporate leadership is essential in advancing sustainability and creating scalable solutions.

1. Champion Climate Literacy in the Workplace

Empower your workforce through environmental education. Hosting internal webinars, partnering with sustainability experts, and integrating climate topics into training programs can help employees make informed decisions, both professionally and personally. Focus areas like plastic pollution and carbon emissions are especially relevant in 2025.

2. Minimise Plastic Usage Across Operations

Plastic pollution poses a serious threat to ecosystems and consumer trust. Conduct audits to identify areas where single-use plastics can be eliminated, introduce reusable or compostable alternatives, and encourage suppliers to adopt sustainable packaging. Companies that lead by example in this space gain reputational and operational benefits.

3. Invest in Reforestation and Carbon Offsetting

Tree planting initiatives are a proven method to absorb carbon emissions and combat deforestation. Join global efforts like the Canopy Project or launch your own corporate tree-planting programs in partnership with local communities. For example, energy company Iberdrola has pledged to plant 20 million trees by 2030—an initiative that aligns environmental stewardship with long-term ESG goals.

4. Mobilise Teams for Global Cleanup Efforts

Organise or sponsor cleanup events in your local markets. From coastal cleanups to urban green space restoration, these efforts demonstrate corporate responsibility and offer excellent opportunities for employee engagement. Encourage team participation and share impact metrics to inspire stakeholders.

5. Support Sustainable Fashion Through Procurement and Policy

For businesses in retail, hospitality, or corporate gifting, sustainable fashion is an important focus. Evaluate your vendors for eco-conscious practices, prioritise recycled materials in uniforms and merchandise, and align your procurement policies with circular economy principles. Rejecting fast fashion in favour of ethical alternatives sends a powerful message to clients and customers.

How Businesses Can Get Involved with Renewable Energy

Transitioning to renewable energy isn’t just good for the planet—it’s a smart, future-focused move for business. Companies that adopt clean energy solutions often see reduced operating costs, improved energy security, and a stronger ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) profile. Here’s how businesses can take action:

1. Power Operations with Renewable Energy

Many companies are switching from traditional grid electricity to renewables like solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal to power offices, factories, and data centres.

Example: Google - Google has been carbon neutral since 2007 and has matched 100% of its electricity use with renewable energy since 2017. Through long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with wind and solar farms, they’ve secured fixed-rate energy prices, reducing exposure to energy market volatility and saving millions in the long term.

2. Install Onsite Renewable Energy Systems

Solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage systems can be installed directly at company sites, reducing reliance on the grid and lowering utility bills.

Example: IKEA - IKEA has installed more than 900,000 solar panels across its stores and warehouses globally. In the U.S., it also owns wind farms. This move not only supports its climate goals but also helps the company save significantly on electricity costs. In some locations, IKEA generates more energy than it uses.

3. Invest in Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) or Carbon Offsets

If direct renewable adoption isn’t possible, companies can purchase RECs or carbon offsets to match their energy use with clean energy production.

Example: Microsoft - Before shifting to 100% renewable energy contracts, Microsoft used RECs to compensate for emissions. Now, it is investing in direct renewable projects and advanced carbon offset solutions while moving toward becoming carbon negative by 2030. This approach also helps attract eco-conscious investors and clients.

4. Collaborate on Community or Shared Energy Projects

Small to mid-sized businesses can pool resources to invest in community solar or wind farms, benefiting from shared clean energy and lower costs.

Example: Etsy - Etsy, in partnership with Google and other corporations, invested in a 280-megawatt wind farm in Texas. This allows Etsy to claim 100% renewable energy usage for its operations, even without owning a facility. The shared approach helps small and mid-sized enterprises access the benefits of renewable energy at scale.

5. Green Your Supply Chain

Encourage or require suppliers to transition to renewable energy. This approach helps businesses reduce their Scope 3 emissions, which often make up the bulk of a company’s carbon footprint.

Example: Apple -  Apple’s Supplier Clean Energy Program has helped more than 300 suppliers commit to using 100% renewable electricity, significantly reducing emissions across its entire value chain. This not only lowers Apple’s environmental impact but also increases the resilience and innovation of its supplier base.

Benefits of Switching to Renewable Energy for Businesses
•    Cost Savings: Lower energy bills over time, especially through PPAs and onsite generation.
•    Energy Independence: Less reliance on fluctuating fossil fuel markets.
•    Regulatory Advantage: Preparedness for future carbon pricing or emissions regulations.
•    Brand Equity: Enhances reputation with investors, customers, and employees.
•    ESG Performance: Stronger sustainability credentials attract top talent and responsible capital.

Earth Day is more than a single-day event—it’s a call to action. Businesses that embed sustainability into their operations, culture, and strategy will not only contribute to a healthier planet but also enhance brand value and resilience in an increasingly eco-aware marketplace.