Celebrated annually on April 22, Earth Day was founded in 1970 as an effort to push for environmental sustainability and protest the increasing pollution of Earth. Ever since, the day has marked an opportunity for communities worldwide to reflect on and renew their commitment to taking care of the planet.
This year, many scientists around the world marked Earth Day on Saturday by taking part in the March for Science to protest major research funding cuts proposed by the Trump administration in the U.S., and to show their support for science-informed policymaking. Earth Day may have passed, but these videos from the marches – plus a few clips of discussing climate change – are a rousing reminder that celebrating and protecting the planet we call home should be a priority all year long.
March for Science
Montreal
Faculty from McGill University took part in the Montreal March for Science on Earth Day this year, to mark the important role of science plays in society and in addressing climate change.
Video courtesy of CTV News Montreal.
Toronto
Toronto scientists and their allies – including UofT professors – hit the streets to criticize what they see as the “direct attack on science” represented by the Trump administration and to take up their “duty to fight for science,” as one group of marchers put it.
Calgary
In Calgary, science writer and former Discover Channel host Jay Ingram joined the crowd out of a concern that “people don’t see the value of research going on behind lab doors.” March organizer Chelsea Dornian drew parallels between the current political approach to science in the U.S. and that of Canada’s previous federal governments.
How can students make a difference?
Wondering how you can make a difference? This video from last year shows five ways that Ryerson students and faculty members are helping the environment on campus by participating in community gardens, recycling batteries and biking to school. As part of its Earth Day fair, Ryerson organised an afternoon of campus nature walks and interactive workshops, including DIY seed bombs and bee hotel building.
Climate change research in Canada
Want to learn more about climate change research happening in Canada right now? York University will host the Ontario Climate Consortium’s annual symposium from May 11 to 12. Here, symposium presenter and environmental studies professor Jose Etcheverry discusses the “misinformation campaign” around renewable energy and why it’s important to cut through this spin in order to make environmentally sustainable change.