Since the first observance of Earth Day 50 years ago on April 22, 1970, please have come together annually on that date to raise awareness about the natural world. Every year, millions of Americans mark the holiday by celebrating the importance of protecting the environment.

The stamp features art director Antonio Alcalá’s painting of Earth, which he created with gouache on watercolor paper. Ricky Alter was the typographer. The design also features small green lines surrounding the planet. The title of the stamp runs across the top, and the words “Forever” and “USA” appear along the bottom.

On April 22, 1970, America celebrated the first national Earth Day. Millions of people, young and old, all over the country joined together to rally against pollution. Earth Day quickly developed into an annual tradition. As time passed, educating children about the environment became a priority. Earth Day is also a time when businesses showcase new environmental goods and services. Today, it remains an important way for Americans and people worldwide to recognize the planet’s importance.

The Earth Day stamp is being issued as a Forever stamp. This Forever stamp will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail one-ounce price.