By what other name is Earth Day known at the United Nations?

At the United Nations, Earth Day is known as International Mother Earth Day. The United Nations General Assembly adopted that name in 2009 through Resolution A/RES/63/278 and designated April 22 for the observance. The first official UN observance under the new title took place in 2010.

The wording reflects the resolution’s view that Earth and its ecosystems are humanity’s common home. “Mother Earth” is also intended to emphasize the interdependence of people, other living species, and the planet’s natural systems. Bolivia introduced the resolution, which was endorsed by more than 50 member states and adopted by consensus.

This UN title is related to, but not identical in origin to, the modern Earth Day movement associated with Gaylord Nelson and the April 22, 1970, U.S. environmental teach-in. The United Nations’ designation gave the date a formal international observance name, while Earth Day organizations coordinate campaigns and events around the world. It should not be confused with World Environment Day, which is a separate UN observance held on June 5.