Earth Day 2025

What is Earth Day?

Earth Day has been running annually since 1970.

The Earth Day network (otherwise known as EARTHDAY.ORG) has been rallying people together annually (and every other day) to highlight the importance of protecting the planet.

It is estimated that over 1 billion people get involved in this global event annually, with events ranging from tree planting and beach clean ups to larger rallies and climate debates.

Each year, Earth Day has an overall theme.

This year’s theme: Our Power, Our Planet.

Aim: To unite the world in the push for renewable energy.

Goal: Triple the global renewable energy generation by 2030.

Renewable Energy Facts – UK

In the UK, renewable energy is already a major part of the electricity mix. The proportion of renewable energy has been growing steadily since the 1990’s. By 2020, 43% of the UK’s electricity came from a mix of renewable sources. These sources include wind, hydro, solar and bioenergy (Information from National Grid).

Renewable energy capacity is anticipated to continue to rise towards 2030 and beyond.  There is currently no aim for renewables to become the UK’s sole provider of energy. Gas power stations are currently deemed necessary to ensure security of supply. According to the National Energy System Operator, their use can be reduced to no more than 5% of total generation to ensure this security of supply (Information from DESNZ).

Renewable energy at your home

If you live in rented accommodation (house or flat) or live in a bought flat, then it can be tricky (but not impossible) to install renewable energy. Most solutions on the market are designed for homeowners, specifically house owners. One of the most common installations to homes in the UK are solar panels, which can provide electricity to your home and help you save on your energy bills.

If you are in rented accommodation, please reach out to your landlord/local authority/housing association and indicate your interest. To increase your likelihood of success, it may be worthwhile attending a resident’s group (usually in shared accommodation) or a local community group. Increasing awareness of both the benefits and costs of renewable energy with fellow residents can help you (and the building manager e.g. housing association) to push the case for local installation.

Community Energy

Another approach to energy generation on a local level is community energy. It can help local areas take control over their energy future and is an ever-growing sector. Community Energy England have compiled all the data for community energy projects and organisations to date in England.

To see the scale of this sector, check out the National Community energy map from Community Energy England here.

Their website also includes lots of useful information if you’re curious but not sure how to get involved.

Now back to Earth Day… would you like to get involved?

There are a plethora of free resources available on the EARTHDAY.ORG website to help everyone get involved.

Or do you want to get involved on a local level?

Click here to see lots of local events taking place.

Are you still not convinced?

No matter what you decide to do for Earth Day, remember no action is too small! Any action is better than inaction.

Ready to learn more?

Training courses available here