The first official Earth Day occurred on April 22, 1970. This annual event was spurred due to a large oil spill near Santa Barbara, Calif. It started as a way to educate college students but turned into a countrywide event with the assistance of volunteers and the national media.

Today, Earth Day is a global event that looks to help change individual behaviors and policies on the local, national and global levels. To learn more about the global Earth Day movement, visit earthday.org.

Earth Day 2024

Here in Minnetonka, we believe that every day is Earth Day. If you’re looking to become more sustainable, consider some of these initiatives:

  • Sign up for a home energy audit. Learn more and sign up, or call 651-328-6220.
  • Replace gas yard equipment with electric options. Yard equipment can emit anywhere from 10 to nearly 300 times the emissions of a vehicle.
  • Raise your thermostat temperature this summer. Even one degree can save as much as 3 percent on your energy use.
  • Start organic recycling. About 1/3 of trash is organic materials that can be composted. Visit minnetonkamn.gov/organicsrecycling to learn more about options and discounts.
  • Enjoy the outdoors! Minnetonka has more than 50 parks and a growing network of trails and sidewalks for you to explore.
  • Participate in Hennepin County Earth Day and Arbor Day Events. Visit the county's website for an interactive map of activities.
  • Consider purchasing rooftop solar. Solar United Neighbors Twin Cities Region offers group buys at a discounted rate. The deadline is May 31.