From its grassroots origins in 1970 to a global movement, Earth Day has driven change in policy, industry, and consumer habits. Discover how fashion and related industries are stepping up with sustainable innovations that honor our planet and shape a greener future.
The Origins of Earth Day: When, Where, and How It Began
Earth Day was first celebrated on April 22, 1970, in response to growing environmental concerns in the United States. It was spearheaded by Senator Gaylord Nelson, who was inspired by the student anti-war movement and sought to bring environmental issues to national attention. The first Earth Day saw 20 million Americans take to the streets to demand stronger environmental protections, leading to the creation of landmark legislation such as the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act.
The Evolution of Earth Day
Since its inception, Earth Day has grown into a global event observed by over a billion people in more than 190 countries. Over the years, its focus has shifted from national policies to global challenges, such as climate change, deforestation, and ocean pollution. Each year, Earth Day is marked by themed campaigns, from reforestation efforts to plastic waste reduction, urging individuals, businesses, and governments to take action.
The 5 Most Important Aspects of Earth Day
- Awareness and Education – Earth Day serves as a platform to educate the public about environmental issues and inspire sustainable practices.
- Policy and Activism – The event has led to major environmental policies and the establishment of organizations dedicated to conservation efforts.
- Community Involvement – From clean-up drives to tree planting, Earth Day encourages hands-on participation at the grassroots level.
- Corporate Responsibility – Businesses worldwide have begun integrating sustainability into their operations, inspired by the Earth Day movement.
- Innovation for a Greener Future – Advancements in renewable energy, sustainable fashion, and eco-friendly products continue to be showcased each year as a commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Why I Believe in Earth Day and Fashion’s Role
As a fashion writer, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how the industry has evolved to meet the growing demand for sustainability. When I first started covering fashion, discussions around eco-friendly practices were often sidelined, viewed as niche or idealistic. Today, however, sustainability is a driving force in the industry, shaping collections, influencing business models, and inspiring a new generation of designers to innovate with the planet in mind.
What gives me confidence in Earth Day’s impact is the tangible change I see each year. Brands that once prioritized trends over ethics are now investing in closed-loop production, upcycling, and fair labor practices. Attending fashion events like NYFW and industry trade shows, I’ve noticed a clear shift—panels discussing climate impact, brands showcasing their commitment to carbon neutrality, and designers proudly highlighting their use of sustainable materials. It’s a movement that’s no longer just about style; it’s about responsibility.
Beyond the fashion world, I find hope in the way consumers are embracing sustainability. People are becoming more mindful of their purchasing habits, choosing quality over quantity and supporting brands with strong ethical foundations. The conversation around Earth Day has moved beyond a single day of awareness to a year-round commitment, and that’s something I find incredibly inspiring. Fashion has always been a reflection of culture, and now, more than ever, it’s reflecting a culture of environmental consciousness.
Earth Day and the Fashion Industry: A Shift Towards Sustainability
The fashion industry, one of the world’s largest polluters, has recognized its role in environmental conservation. Over the past decade, leading brands and emerging designers have embraced sustainability through ethical sourcing, eco-friendly fabrics, and circular fashion models. Key initiatives include:
- Recycled Materials – Brands like Stella McCartney and Patagonia utilize recycled textiles to reduce waste.
- Organic and Sustainable Fabrics – Companies are investing in organic cotton, bamboo, and innovative alternatives like mycelium leather.
- Eco-Friendly Production – Several brands are implementing water-saving dyeing techniques and reducing carbon footprints in manufacturing.
- Slow Fashion Advocacy – Consumers are encouraged to invest in quality over quantity, reducing the fast fashion cycle and promoting longevity in clothing.
- Collaborations and Pledges – Major fashion houses have joined global sustainability coalitions, such as the Fashion Pact and the UN Climate Change Charter for Fashion.
How Companies Are Taking Initiative for Earth Day
Many industries beyond fashion have stepped up their sustainability efforts in honor of Earth Day. Companies in beauty, technology, and even automotive sectors are launching green initiatives. Some standout examples include:
- Adidas’ Parley for the Oceans Collection, made from upcycled ocean plastic.
- Apple’s Carbon Neutrality Plan, which aims for all products to be carbon neutral by 2030.
- Levi’s Water<Less Initiative, which reduces water usage in denim production.
- L’Oréal’s Sustainable Packaging, moving towards biodegradable and refillable beauty containers.
- Tesla’s Renewable Energy Push, promoting electric vehicles as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
Earth Day is more than just a celebration—it’s a call to action. Over the last 50+ years, it has grown from a grassroots movement into a global force for change. As we move forward, industries, brands, and individuals must continue embracing sustainable practices to ensure a healthier planet for future generations. Whether through fashion, technology, or daily lifestyle choices, everyone has a role to play in the fight for environmental preservation.
This Earth Day, let’s not only reflect on the progress made but also commit to being part of the solution.
Suntegrity:
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Suntegrity is the OG clean, mineral sun brand designed to make healthy sun care an easy and fun part of your daily routine. They incorporate bio-based plastics and PCR across their product line while making refillable products whenever possible. They also avoid toxic ingredients, create vegan formulations whenever possible, use reef-safe minerals to protect the skin, minimize unnecessary secondary product boxes, and ship products with biodegradable loose-fill—all of which help reduce their carbon footprint.
*Also available at Nordstrom, Free People, Dermstore & More
OASIS SOCIETY:
OASIS SOCIETY FOOTWEAR
Sky Organics:
This Earth Day, make sustainable choices that benefit both you and the planet! Check out our top eco-conscious product picks, from organic hair care to stylish, planet-friendly essentials. Let’s make a positive impact together!
Sky Organics is kicking off Earth Month with the launch of two NEW certified organic haircare innovations designed for healthy curls and scalp care!
- Organic Shea & Babassu Moisture Butter ($17.99): A rich, versatile butter that hydrates, softens, boosts shine and defines curls while reducing frizz. Perfect for styling, refreshing, or pre-shampoo treatments.
- Organic Castor Oil with Rosemary Oil ($15.99): A pure, hexane-free strengthening oil blend that nourishes the scalp and fortifies strands for stronger, fuller-looking hair. Ideal for scalp and end care.
Now available at skyorganics.com, amazon.com and walmart.com. Both products are made with sustainably sourced ingredients, and 100% recyclable— the perfect natural care for you, your curls, and the planet this Earth Month.
Tiger and the Monkey:
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Tiger and the Monkey™ is the ultimate women’s luxury bohemian fashion brand on a mission to encourage women to embrace adventure through personal style, with the confidence of a tiger and the playfulness of a monkey. They embrace all things natural and promise to deliver premium design and quality while respecting the environment and verifying the vendors with whom they collaborate with pay their employees fairly and provide good working conditions. They produce a limited number of designs, all made in small quantities. Plus, 75% of the fabrics they use are made from either environmentally sensitive machined products, for example, Ecovero(™) Viscose, or they are hand-loomed and largely organic fabrics created by hand and often without the use of electricity.
Available at Wolf + Badger:
AQUARI:
AQUARI is the ultimate fashion brand redefining modern femininity through its flagship swimwear line and versatile ready-to-wear pieces. With a focus on ethical production and high-quality materials, AQUARI bridges elegance and functionality, offering styles that effortlessly transition from day to night. They utilize eco-friendly materials such as recycled nylon, linen, and fabrics regenerated from ocean waste.
Additionally, they actively minimize waste throughout their production process, by utilizing pioneering techniques that reduce fabric waste and using eco-friendly packaging and shipping methods. They also have partnerships with organizations like Eden: People + Planet, that are dedicated to global landscape restoration efforts.
Arctic Fox:
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Arctic Fox
Arctic Fox is the ultimate vegan hair color and nail polish brand with a purpose. On a mission to redefine semi-permanent hair color with bold, highly pigmented shades that are vegan, cruelty-free, and free from harsh chemicals, Arctic Fox was founded in 2013, Arctic Fox to deliver long-lasting, conditioning color that fades beautifully within its spectrum—designed for DIY-friendly, mess-free application with less bleeding and staining. Beyond vibrant hair color, 15% of all profits support animal welfare causes, making Arctic Fox a brand with a purpose. Over the years, they have expanded their lineup to include a plant-based lightening kit, hair care essentials for color maintenance, a growing range of accessories, and vegan, chip-resistant nail polishes infused with five key nail-enriching ingredients for long-lasting wear.
*Available at Amazon, Hot Topic, Sally Beauty, Ulta Beauty, and Target
Slate & Tell:
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Slate & Tell is your go-to destination for meaningful, everyday fine and personalized jewelry. Committed to being socially and environmentally conscious, their responsibly sourced metals are 100% recycled while gemstones are responsibly sourced, natural and eco-friendly. Each jewelry piece is hand-crafted, hand-set, and hand-stamped with care by talented team of silversmiths and artisans for pieces that are made with love, for love.
Amanda Ozard x The Unwind Brush:
Amanda Ozard x The Unwind Brush
Amanda Ozard is a renowned hairstylist with over 15 years of expertise in cut, color, and extensions, and one of NYC’s leading extension specialists. In 2024, she launched The Unwind Brush, a first-of-its-kind, plastic-free detangling tool designed for both natural hair and extensions. Created by top extension specialist Amanda Ozard, this innovative brush features long metal bristles without ball tips, allowing it to glide effortlessly through hair without snagging, breakage, or tension. The flexible cushion pad, equipped with an airflow hole, ensures a smooth, scalp-friendly brushing experience. Crafted with sustainability in mind, the Unwind Brush is made with bamboo, a fast-growing and renewable resource, and contains zero plastic. Plus, through a partnership with Switch to Zero, a tree is planted for every brush sold—helping to promote healthier hair and a healthier planet.
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