Jerusalem, Israel - Apr. 22, 2021  - April 22, 2021  is officially Earth Day, but international programming began on April 20th. Growing out of the first Earth Day celebrated in the United States in 1970, the environmental movement has spread to over 192 countries with an aim to drive positive action around the globe.   

The theme for this year's Earth Day is "Restore Our Earth" focusing on natural processes and emerging green technologies that can restore the world's ecosystems. 

On the occasion of Earth Day in Jerusalem, BJL took a walk through the Nature Museum for a photo essay. Ten years ago the property was to be sold to developers, but protests saved the valuable nature space for public use. With coronavirus, the outdoor areas on the grounds have become popular and important locations for small events.  

In the 19th century, Armenian businessman Lazarus Margharian built Dakan Villan. In 1962, the property was opened as the Nature Museum focusing on the wildlife in the land of Israel. Multiple generations of Jerusalem children learned to appreciate nature, including holding large snakes in the Nature Museum.

The Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs was involved with numerous international programs, including on Facebook.