Earth Day 2009 was a couple of weeks ago. It was the 39th Earth Day. In my part of the world, the day was marked by distinctly non-shocking events. There were fairs showcasing less energy-intensive products, school field trips to state parks, community clean-up even, special waste pickups for the assorted hazardous chemicals that are usually stashed in the back of garages and sheds. It was all pretty normal, with events similar to ones held at different times throughout the year.

That’s what 39 years can do. This year’s Earth Day didn’t flood the streets and parks with 20 million pioneers. It didn’t shock the country with new – some would call radical – ideas about environmental degradation and threat. The eye-opening ideas that Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson championed in 1970 are mainstream in 2009. U.S. corporations have environmental policies and reports that highlight their membership in environmental organizations. The Environmental Protection Agency – something that didn’t even exist in 1970 – presents awards to businesses for their successes in reducing pollution. Pouring used automotive oil into the stormwater drain isn’t automatic or innocent. Chopping down mangroves for a better view of the Gulf doesn’t trump protecting the shoreline against erosion. Wal-Mart sells CFLs, power companies urge conservation, and solar panels on the roof don’t trigger snickers. Environmental responsibility is the topic of Sunday sermons and sustainable growth is used by many communities to distinguish themselves from their neighbors.

Earth Day has lost its shock value. Not bad for a 39-year-old.