Microsoft News celebrates Earth Day throughout the month of April as we explore the beauty of our planet, examine threats to our environment, and actively seek ways we can work together to protect our world.
The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970 in the U.S. Today, more than 193 countries demonstrate support during this time for the protection of the environment. Whether planting a butterfly garden, volunteering at recycling centers, or cleaning trash from local beaches, more than 1 billion people worldwide find inspiration in action and advocacy.
Through our Earth Month coverage, we’ll take a look at businesses with great ideas to preserve the planet, environmental victories since the first Earth Day, and simple ways we can protect biodiversity. You may be surprised to learn how many animals are on the endangered species list and why you shouldn’t crush aluminum cans before recycling them. We’ll explore photo galleries of our most spectacular natural formations as well as forests you should visit in your lifetime.
Are you curious about the health of the forests in your area? In an effort to better understand the complex ecosystems of our forests, Microsoft AI has partnered with SilviaTerra, a team of foresters and biometricians. Using the power of Microsoft AI, we can better understand our tree populations and their positive impact on the environment.
Take a look at the Tree Potential Project to view tree populations in your local forests to learn about the current state of these ecosystems compared to their ideal sustainable states.
You can help!
Once you’ve visited the Tree Potential Project, you may be inspired to help regreen the planet by supporting The Nature Conservancy’s pledge to plant one billion trees by 2025. Microsoft will match your tree donation, up to a maximum of $50,000, so that together, we can double our impact.
As of April 22 at 9:30 am pst, our generous readers have already donated over $38,774. With Microsoft matching, support of The Nature Conservancy has already reached $77,548!
We invite you to consider donating to the National Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy in support of their conservation efforts.
We hope you’ll dive in to learn more about the state of our environment and that you’ll be inspired to donate, volunteer in your local communities, and take action to preserve the gifts of our world.
