Pollution is one of the most serious problems facing the planet, but it may be one of the easiest to overcome. How do humans cause pollution, and how can we remedy the problems pollution causes?
Supporting Our Environment
Earth Day celebrates the progress of the environmental movement and raises awareness of the importance of long-term ecological sustainability. This hub gathers trusted Britannica resources, activities, interactive media, and classroom-ready lesson plans to help educators spark curiosity, foster critical thinking, and move toward positive change for our planet.

Have students explore how human action has triggered a cascade of environmental problems that threaten the continued ability of both natural and human systems to flourish. Next, ask them to research the damaging effects of ONE of these four major environmental problems and answer some thought-provoking questions.
Pollution is one of the most serious problems facing the planet, but it may be one of the easiest to overcome. How do humans cause pollution, and how can we remedy the problems pollution causes?
Lack of access to clean water poses the most immediate risk to human life and regional stability. What are the causes and effects of water scarcity at the global level, and what are some strategies for addressing it?
Greenhouse gas emissions from human activities are changing Earth’s climate. Why and how is this change occurring, and what can we do about it?
Nonhuman life on Earth is suffering greatly at human hands. What are the major threats to biodiversity, and what can be done to keep our organisms from being lost forever?
Understanding why we celebrate Earth Day can inspire students to participate in protecting Earth for future generations. These resources give educators ready-to-use tools that spark meaningful discussions, inspire curiosity, and encourage critical thinking.
Looking for ready-to-use tools to spark classroom discussion? These curated resources—videos, activities, blogs, and quizzes—make it simple to inspire students to advocate for our home planet.
These Earth Day reading passages and summaries in English and Spanish (plus a short quiz!) were generated, leveled, and translated by Britannica Studio, and they’re ready for class! We included options for Grades 1, 5, and 8.
Environmentalist, journalist, and New York Times bestselling author Bill McKibben discusses the problem of climate change and what we can do about it.