How it works
Who named Earth Day, which avenue New York closed for it, and why a bell rings at the United Nations each March: four rounds on the day's history, each answer with its reason.
Read the full guide
Four rounds on one day
How Earth Day began covers the oil spill, the senator and the ad man who named the day. The first Earth Day, 1970 has the crowds, the schools and the union that paid the bills. Earth Day since 1980 runs from Canada to a climb on Mount Everest. April 22 and the equinox Earth Day explains the date and the peace bell.
Earth Day trivia questions and answers, printable
A tap on a choice shows the answer and its reason. After ten questions the card offers Print question sheet, a sheet of 20. Open More options there for Topic, to stay on one round, and for Print answer key.
Tips
- The first Earth Day, 1970 suits a class: it asks about schools, a poster and a closed avenue.
- How Earth Day began is the hardest round by our estimate.
Questions and answers
When was the first Earth Day?
April 22, 1970, a Wednesday. An estimated 20 million Americans took part in rallies, marches and teach-ins that day.
Who started Earth Day?
Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin proposed a nationwide environmental teach-in for April 22, 1970. A year earlier the peace activist John McConnell had proposed a day to honor the Earth, first observed on March 21, 1970.
Why is Earth Day on April 22?
Senator Nelson wanted college students to take part. The week of April 19 to 25 did not fall during exams or spring breaks, and a Wednesday had less competition from other events.
Are these Earth Day questions suitable for a class?
The pack is written for a general table and has nothing unsuitable for children, but it is history, not a science lesson: names, dates and places.