Our Power, Our Planet: What the 2025 Earth Day Theme means for you

Every year on 22 April, people across the globe come together to celebrate Earth Day, a day dedicated to environmental protection, advocacy and action.

Since its inception in 1970, Earth Day has grown into a worldwide movement, reminding humanity of the urgent need to safeguard our planet.

This year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet”, emphasises the critical role individuals and communities play in creating a sustainable future. The theme focuses on the urgent need for global renewable energy initiatives and community engagement.

Read Also:

World Environment Day 2020: How young Nigerians are matching words with action to save the earth

EXPLAINER: All you need to know about climate change

While governments and corporations have crucial roles to play, true environmental change begins with individuals, with you and me.

Have you ever seen how people cut down trees indiscriminately, whether for firewood, construction or clearing land for housing, without a second thought for the environment?

Too often, trees are felled carelessly, stripping the land of its natural cover and exposing communities to the harsh effects of erosion, heat and loss of biodiversity.

From our villages to our cities, the sight of barren compounds and streets where trees once stood has become common.

Are we also expecting the government to come and replant trees in our compounds? To reverse the damage we ourselves are causing? Even when we live with the consequences every day?

In fact, beyond tree felling, we are all responsible for different forms of environmental pollution.

Below are the reasons why we should avoid the act of pollution.

Consequences of Environmental Pollution:

Flooding has become more rampant, especially because plastics and other waste block drainage systems, worsening the impact of heavy rains.

Health hazards such as malaria, Lassa fever, cholera and respiratory illnesses are also common results of improper waste management.

Excessive waste and pollution contribute to climate change through the release of greenhouse gases and the degradation of natural ecosystems.

Pollution harms aquatic life, kills wildlife and destroys natural habitats, leading to a significant loss of biodiversity.

Dirty and polluted environments reduce the overall quality of life, affecting mental health, lowering property values and making communities unsafe and unattractive.

Environmental pollution is not an abstract problem. It affects our daily lives directly. So individuals also have to protect their environment.

Roles of Individuals in Environmental Protection:

In line with this year’s Earth Day theme, individuals must engage in:

1. Disposing waste correctly in bins, practising recycling and resisting the temptation to litter all contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.
2. Planting trees and supporting afforestation projects play a vital role in improving air quality, preventing soil erosion and combating the effects of climate change. Every tree planted is a step towards a more sustainable future.
3. Raising awareness is equally important: Individuals can educate family members, friends and colleagues about the importance of environmental protection. Social media, community meetings and small seminars are effective platforms for spreading the message.
4. Adopting a sustainable lifestyle also matters: This means using energy-saving appliances, reducing water wastage, supporting eco-friendly businesses and making conscious choices that benefit the planet.
5. Getting involved in community initiatives such as clean-up campaigns, tree-planting exercises and local environmental projects demonstrates leadership and a true commitment to protecting the earth.

Earth Day 2025 reminds us that the battle to save our environment is not the government’s battle alone. It is everyone’s responsibility. Every careless disposal, every tree cut down and every action we take affects the planet we call home.

If we each act responsibly, we can protect our environment, secure our health and build a thriving future for generations to come.