National Greenpeace Day, observed annually on September 15, honors the founding of Greenpeace, one of the most influential environmental organizations in the world. Established in 1971, Greenpeace has been at the forefront of addressing critical environmental issues through peaceful activism and advocacy. This day serves as a reminder to protect our planet and take action for a sustainable future.
Quick Facts
- When is it? September 15
- Tagged as: Environmental Awareness, Activism, Sustainability
- What’s the hashtag? #GreenpeaceDay
- When was it founded? 2011 (as an official day)
- Who founded it? Mayor Gregor Robertson of Vancouver
History of National Greenpeace Day
The roots of Greenpeace trace back to 1971 when 17 activists sailed on the Phyllis Cormack to protest nuclear testing off Alaska’s coast. Though the tests proceeded, their efforts sparked a global movement advocating for environmental justice. Originally called the “Don’t Make a Wave Committee,” the group evolved into Greenpeace Foundation in 1972. In 2011, Vancouver’s mayor officially declared September 15 as Greenpeace Day to commemorate its legacy.
Greenpeace has since grown into a global organization with offices in over 55 countries and millions of supporters. Its campaigns address climate change, deforestation, overfishing, plastic pollution, and more.
Timeline
- 1969: The “Don’t Make a Wave Committee” is formed.
- 1970: Irving Stowe organizes a concert to fund environmental activism.
- 1971: Greenpeace is officially founded in Vancouver.
- 1985: The Rainbow Warrior, a Greenpeace ship, is bombed by French agents.
- 2011: September 15 is declared Greenpeace Day by Vancouver’s mayor.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 15 | Monday |
| 2026 | September 15 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | September 15 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | September 15 | Friday |
| 2029 | September 15 | Saturday |
| 2030 | September 15 | Sunday |
Observed
Greenpeace Day is celebrated worldwide through peaceful protests, tree planting, workshops on sustainability, and family-friendly outdoor events. Many also use this day to reduce their carbon footprint or participate in social media campaigns using #GreenpeaceDay.
Fun Facts About National Greenpeace Day
- Greenpeace’s first campaign targeted nuclear testing near Alaska.
- The organization operates three iconic ships: Rainbow Warrior, Arctic Sunrise, and Esperanza.
- Greenpeace relies entirely on individual donations and refuses funding from governments or corporations.
Quiz
- What year was Greenpeace officially founded?
- What was Greenpeace originally called?
- Which city declared September 15 as Greenpeace Day?
(Answers: 1. 1971; 2. Don’t Make a Wave Committee; 3. Vancouver)
FAQs
Q: Why is National Greenpeace Day important?
A: It highlights the need for environmental activism and celebrates peaceful efforts to protect our planet.
Q: How can I participate?
A: Join local events, reduce your carbon footprint, volunteer with Greenpeace, or spread awareness online using #GreenpeaceDay.
Related
- Earth Day
- World Environment Day
- Arbor Day
- International Day of Climate Action