The holiday remains one of the largest secular observances in the world, used to spotlight ongoing threats including plastic pollution, deforestation, and global warming. According to EarthDay.org, "more than one billion people now participate in Earth Day activities each year, making it the largest civic observance in the world."

Earth Day was started to raise awareness about environmental protection and inspire action to address climate change, and pollution.

Ohio is home to some beautiful, rare and unique plants and animals. Here are some to learn about just in time for Earth Day 2025.