Back in the late 1960s, Americans were beginning to become aware of the damage pollution was causing to the planet's air and water. After U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin witnessed the damage caused by an oil spill off the California coast, he called for a day that would focus the nation's attention on the importance of the environment.

The first Earth Day took place on April 22, 1970. Nearly 20 million Americans participated in activities to commemorate the first Earth Day celebration, and the focus on environmental issues contributed to the subsequent passage of the Clean Air Act and the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency.

Over the years, Earth Day has grown, with particularly large observances in 1990 and 2000. Today, many cities and towns observe the day by holding events that spotlight ways people can make Earth-friendly choices, from replacing incandescent light bulbs with high-efficiency compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), to increasing awareness of local recycling programs.

Electric cooperatives like ours have also been working to help consumers reduce their use of electricity. For example, we promote proper home sealing as a way to lower energy bills while enhancing comfort. Through Wabash Valley Power, electric cooperatives have also invested in renewable energy options such as biomass and wind power.

Why would an electric cooperative care so much about the environment? We live here, too, and we appreciate having clean air to breathe and clean water to drink. Just as important, we're a non-profit membership organization that exists to serve the needs of members like you. Wise energy use and a concern for the Earth improve the quality of our members' lives, now and for future generations.