The very first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970. About 20 million Americans joined rallies, cleanups and teach-ins across the country. Just a few months later, in July 1970, the U.S. government responded by establishing the Environmental Protection Agency.

AUSTIN, Texas — This Earth Day, a Texas-based grocery store is offering a free item to promote protection of the planet. H-E-B is giving away 274,000 free reusable bags on Tuesday only, starting at 8 a.m. The Earth Day bags are available not just at H-E-B, but also at Central Market, Mi Tienda and Joe V's Smart Shop locations throughout the state.