Earth Day: Honoring Our Planet Through Exploration and Education

Earth Day, observed annually on April 22, is a global recognition of the environmental movement and a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the planet’s natural resources. Established in 1970 by Senator Gaylord Nelson and student activist Denis Hayes, the first Earth Day raised national awareness around pollution and spurred critical legislation, including the Clean Air Act and the Endangered Species Act. Today, Earth Day is celebrated by one billion participants in more than 190 countries, making it one of the largest civic observances in the world. For educators, the recognition of this day offers a valuable opportunity to connect classroom instruction with real-world environmental issues and to highlight the inspiring work of National Geographic scientists, conservationists, and explorers such as Andrés Ruzo. 

Andrés Ruzo: National Geographic Explorer

Andrés Ruzo, a geothermal scientist and National Geographic Explorer featured in National Geographic Earth and Space Science program, embodies the spirit of Earth Day through his groundbreaking research and commitment to conservation. Motivated by a childhood legend, Andrés Ruzo ventured into the Amazon Rainforest and confirmed the existence of the Boiling River—the world’s largest documented thermal river, with temperatures reaching up to 99.1°C (210°F). What makes this geothermal phenomenon especially remarkable is its location—far from any active volcano. Ruzo’s discovery and his ongoing work as an Explorer highlight the power of scientific curiosity, interdisciplinary exploration, and meaningful collaboration with Indigenous communities in understanding and protecting Earth’s systems.

Earth Day Themes Through the Lens of Andrés Ruzo

This Earth Day, introduce your students to National Geographic Explorer Andrés Ruzo’s story and explore classroom activities and case study connections that bring real-world science and environmental stewardship to life.

Earth Day’s core focus areas:
• Climate & Energy: Andrés Ruzo’s work of mapping geothermal energy potential across the United States has unveiled new opportunities for clean, renewable energy—even in areas previously overlooked.

• Conservation & Biodiversity: His efforts to protect the Boiling River spotlight the urgent need to preserve delicate ecosystems and honor the cultural knowledge that supports their sustainability.

• Education: As a passionate science communicator, Andrés Ruzo helps students connect the dots between geology, sustainability, and cultural respect—empowering them to see how their own choices impact the planet.

• Sustainable Development: Through global research, Andrés Ruzo advocates for low-impact energy solutions and conservation strategies that benefit both the environment and local communities.

Earth Day Activities Inspired by Andrés Ruzo

Andrés Ruzo’s journey shows how curiosity fuels conservation and reminds us that there’s still so much to discover about our planet. This Earth Day, inspire your students to think like explorers—ask bold questions, seek creative solutions, and take small, purposeful actions. Discover more about Andrés Ruzo’s exploration of the boiling river by sharing our chapter case study activity and Earth Day classroom resources with your students! Students can work in pairs or small groups to form questions they have on mapping geothermal activity, write about local environmental challenges, or compare renewable energy sources.

Explore Earth Day classroom activities and student resources here!

Resources

1. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/article/this-mythical-river-in-peru-is-boiling-and-one-young-scientist-is-on-a-quest-to-protect-it
2. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/podcasts/article/episode-13-solving-the-mystery-of-the-boiling-river
3. https://boilingriver.org/
4. https://infocus.eltngl.com/2024/11/18/what-visiting-the-boiling-river-taught-me-about-life-the-climate-crisis-and-elt/