The annual Earth Day event brings together millions of people from around the world in support of the environment, highlighting the urgent action we need to take to save our planet.

Earth Day has been marked on 22 April every year since 1970. It is a time to shine a light on the environmental issues we are facing, from air pollution to deforestation. This year’s theme, ‘Restore Our Earth’, focuses on natural processes, emerging green technologies, and innovative thinking that can restore our ecosystems.

There are thousands of events taking place, both online and in person (but with local coronavirus restrictions). Organisers have produced a toolkit providing information on ways to get involved.

Luke spoke today at Defra questions, questioning George Eustice on why water companies are not challenged for pumping raw sewage into British rivers. He asked the Secretary of State for Defra to commit to taking swift action against water companies who are pumping raw sewage into the nation’s rivers, which subsequently kills fish, natural habitats, and birds. You can watch this interaction above.

Luke is also taking part in PETA’s pledge to eat only vegan food on Earth Day. The consumption of animals for food contributes heavily to the many serious environmental problems the planet is facing, including deforestation, water shortages, ocean acidification, air pollution, and biodiversity loss. Animal agriculture is also responsible for significant greenhouse-gas emissions. For these reasons and more, the UN and leading scientists are calling for major changes to global food choices as a matter of urgency.

Speaking about going vegan for Earth Day, Luke said:

“As Shadow Environment Secretary, I am committed to reducing the UK’s environmental impact, especially that from our food. A vegan lifestyle has great benefits for the planet. If everyone tried vegan, it would significantly lower the UK’s greenhouse-gas emissions. I’m going vegan this Earth Day, and I hope many people will join me.”