Earth Day in Colombia is celebrated every April 22nd , a special date to reflect on the importance of caring for the planet and promoting sustainable actions. Throughout the country, environmental activities, clean-up days, educational campaigns, and community events are held to strengthen ecological awareness among citizens.
In this article you will find ideas for eco-friendly celebrations, community projects and creative ways to participate in Earth Day in Colombia , in schools, businesses, homes and municipalities.
Origin and meaning of Earth Day
Earth Day was born in 1970 in the United States, driven by environmental activist Gaylord Nelson , with the purpose of raising awareness about the planet's environmental problems.
In Colombia, this date has gained great relevance due to its natural wealth, biodiversity and the challenges it faces regarding climate change, deforestation and pollution.
Celebrating Earth Day in Colombia is an opportunity to foster responsible habits and promote sustainability in all areas of society.
Importance of celebrating Earth Day in Colombia
Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, with more than 50,000 registered species , rainforests, moorlands and unique ecosystems.
However, it also faces environmental challenges such as:
Deforestation in the Amazon and the biogeographic Chocó
Pollution of rivers and water sources
Inadequate management of solid waste
Loss of native species
Rising temperatures and extreme weather events
Therefore, commemorating Earth Day is not just a symbolic celebration, but a collective action to protect the natural resources that sustain life and the future of the country.
Ecological activities to celebrate Earth Day in schools
Schools play an essential role in the environmental education of children and young people. Here are some ideal educational and recreational activities to celebrate Earth Day in Colombian educational institutions:
1. Creative recycling campaigns
Organize a crafts contest using recycled materials. Students can create artwork, toys, or decorations using recycled bottles, cardboard, or paper.
This teaches the importance of giving waste a second life .
2. Planting trees or school gardens
Planting trees is one of the most symbolic activities of Earth Day. Each group can adopt a tree and care for it throughout the year.
You can also create organic school gardens with vegetables, herbs and pollinating flowers.
3. Environmental talks and documentaries
Teachers can show educational films about climate change, biodiversity, or pollution. Afterward, they can lead a discussion to reflect on what was learned.
4. Ecological walks
Organizing educational outings to natural parks or local reserves helps connect students with nature and recognize the importance of conserving it.
Sustainable initiatives in communities and municipalities
Many Colombian communities have adopted collective actions that strengthen the local environmental culture. Here are some ideas that can be replicated:
1. Clean-up days for rivers, beaches and parks
In cities like Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Leticia, these activities are common every April 22nd. Volunteers can be called upon to collect waste, sort recyclable materials, and raise awareness among residents.
2. Organic fairs and farmers' markets
In rural municipalities, it is possible to celebrate Earth Day by promoting organic products, sustainable crafts, and green bartering .
These fairs strengthen the local economy and reduce environmental impact.
3. Community reforestation campaigns
Community action boards and mayoral offices can coordinate reforestation days in degraded or urban areas, involving children, youth and adults.
4. Artistic and cultural displays
Local groups can present plays, murals, or dances with messages about caring for the environment, combining culture and environmental education.
How to celebrate Earth Day in Colombian companies
Companies can also participate in this commemoration through sustainable and socially responsible actions :
1. Implement corporate recycling programs
Install recycling points, train staff in waste separation, and reduce the use of single-use paper or plastics.
2. Internal sustainable mobility campaigns
Promote the shared use of vehicles, bicycles or public transport to reduce the carbon footprint.
3. Donation or adoption of green areas
Several companies in Bogotá, Medellín, or Cali adopt public parks or gardens to keep them clean and wooded.
4. Environmental talks and volunteering
Invite environmental experts or organize volunteer days in nature reserves or conservation projects.
Eco-friendly ideas for celebrating Earth Day at home
You don't need to attend a big event to contribute to the planet. From home, every Colombian can adopt small sustainable habits that make a big difference:
Reduce electricity and water consumption.
Avoid using disposable plastics.
Properly sort the waste.
Plant a tree or an ornamental plant.
Reuse glass and paper containers.
Choose local and organic products.
Celebrating Earth Day in Colombia from home reinforces daily environmental responsibility and raises awareness within the family.
National campaigns for Earth Day in Colombia
Each year, the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development leads activities under slogans such as "Biodiverse Colombia, Living Colombia" .
Other participating entities include:
National Natural Parks of Colombia
IDEAM
Botanical Garden of Bogotá
Mayoral offices and governorships
These institutions promote digital campaigns, reforestation and conservation projects , inviting citizens and companies to unite under a common purpose: to care for the Earth.
Inspiring phrases and messages for Earth Day
Some ideal phrases to share on social media, murals, or educational campaigns:
“Caring for the Earth is caring for our common home.”
“We do not inherit the Earth from our parents, we borrow it from our children.”
“Every action counts, even the smallest, for a greener planet.”
“Plant a tree today, breathe a future tomorrow.”