1) The Earth formed over 4.6 billion years through the accretion and differentiation of gases and planetesimals clumping together via gravitational forces. 2) Early Earth had extreme temperatures and volatile composition, but stabilized over time allowing the first lifeforms to emerge and eventually diversify. 3) Human activity since the Industrial Revolution has caused widespread environmental degradation through pollution, resource exploitation, and climate change, threatening biodiversity and livability. 4) While governments have been slow to act, individuals can make a difference through choices to reduce waste and emissions, educate others, and support sustainable practices.