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50th Earth Day Highlights Our Wildlife Heritage, Importance of Nature Amid COVID-19 Crisis

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The 50th anniversary of Earth Day and the global public health crisis are both stark reminders of why we need to protect wildlife and safeguard our air, water and public lands.

“The 50th anniversary of Earth Day is a golden opportunity to reflect upon the importance of wildlife conservation and safely connect with nature,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “The unprecedented public health crisis we face today is a stark reminder of how we must remain vigilant to safeguard our wildlife, air, water and public lands. From accelerating climate change to an escalating wildlife extinction crisis, we all can make a difference. This Earth Day we may be physically distancing, but together we can and must act to ensure our wildlife and way of life endure for future generations.”

Learn more about how you can connect with nature, support wildlife, and celebrate Earth Day:

  • Consider starting a garden for wildlife to help reach the goal of certifying our 250,000th wildlife habitat in 2020.
  • Tune in to watch remarks on April 25 during Earth Day Live from Mustafa Santiago Ali, vice president of environmental justice, climate, and community revitalization at the National Wildlife Federation.

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Where We Work

More than one-third of U.S. fish and wildlife species are at risk of extinction in the coming decades. We're on the ground in seven regions across the country, collaborating with 52 state and territory affiliates to reverse the crisis and ensure wildlife thrive.

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