FAQ
What is the purpose of the flag?
The purpose of The International Flag of Planet Earth is to represent the astronomical body of planet Earth. It is a reminder to humanity that we need to take care of this planet and each other.
When is the flag supposed to be used?
The International Flag of Planet Earth can be flown any day. The most obvious occasion is for Earth Day (April 22) and Earth Month (April), but it can be used for all occasions when representing planet Earth and in various international contexts.
How am I allowed to use the flag?
REPRESENTATION
The flag is to be used to represent the astronomical body of planet Earth (not your business, your mission, your brand, or yourself).DESIGN
The original flag ratio is 2:3, however, the rectangular shape of the design may vary depending on its usage (i.e. circular, square, triangular, etc.). In all cases, keep colors and the emblem design intact.
Am I allowed to change color / form / design of the flag?
No changes to the emblem design or colors are allowed. However, the shape may vary. Please honor the original proposal of The International Flag of Planet Earth.
Who holds the copyright to the flag?
The creator and chief designer, Oskar Pernefeldt, holds the copyrights to the proposed The International Flag of Planet Earth. The reason for this is simple; to protect the integrity of the flag as it is introduced to the public domain. Just as a national flag of any kind is protected by the government agencies behind its creation, we have chosen to keep it this way for the same purpose.
Can I use the flag in my logo?
We do not agree with anyone using the flag as their personal or business trademark/logo. The reason for this is simple. The flag represents planet Earth, not a business, brand or person.
You are allowed to integrate the flag/symbol into your logo, to make a connection to Earth (as the flag is a symbol for Earth) - but using the flag simply as your logo is not.
Can I use the flag for commercial use?
The simple answer is yes, you are allowed to use The International Flag of Planet Earth for commercial use. However, the usage must align with the INTENTION (using the flag while representing planet Earth - not your business, your mission, your brand, or yourself) and DESIGN (the flag is featured as designed; keep colors and emblem design intact).
We appreciate you considering supporting the IFOPE-O efforts in awareness creation around the flag, by donating to our mission if you are financially benefitting from selling goods with the flag.
Music videos / Films / other Media
You are allowed to include the flag in your creative projects. Be mindful that the usage needs to align with the INTENTION (using the flag while representing planet Earth - not your business, your mission, your brand, or yourself) and DESIGN (the flag is featured as designed; keep colors and emblem design intact).
Using the flag at events
Contact us directly for more info about the ways we can support your upcoming event (info@flagofplanetearth.com)
Who is behind this initiative?
The flag was designed and launched by Oskar Pernefeldt in 2015 as his graduation project from Beckmans College of Design. The initiative has since its inception spread and reached millions globally. More information about the flag HERE.
The nonprofit organization was founded in 2020 and has grown organically since then to include individuals who work passionately to spread awareness about the flag. More information about the organization HERE.
What is the ideology behind the flag?
There is no specific ideology behind The International Flag of Planet Earth. It represents planet Earth. It is inclusive of all ideologies on Earth.
The nonprofit organization that is behind the flag does not operate with any political or religious affiliations. We remain completely non-partisan.
Why is this flag important?
This flag is important because it gives Earth representation. It is a symbol for humanity of that which unites us - Earth. We believe that diversity is of value to all. No matter all or our differences (opinions, affiliations, beliefs) we share the inherent challenges and possibilities of what it means to live on this planet.
How do I support this initiative?
You support the initiative by flying the flag and helping us spread awareness. You can also support by donating to our organization so that we can continue our work with the flag.
Where do I buy the flag?
The International Flag of Planet Earth Organization does not sell the flag, however there are a myriad of distributors available online. One of our favorites in the USA is Flags For Good.
Does the flag replace other flags?
The International Flag of Planet Earth is not intended to replace national or regional flags, or any other flag for that matter. For example, the flag of the USA will remain the flag of the USA. The International Flag of Planet Earth is a planetary flag representing Earth. It is complementary to national flags. We want people to fly it proudly, no matter nationality or background.
How would this become the official flag for the planet?
When people, businesses, organizations, institutions, towns, cities, municipalities and nations stand behind the flag, it gradually gains official status.
Doesn’t the UN flag serve the same purpose?
The flag of the United Nations represents the organization United Nations, and not planet Earth. If the United Nations for any reason ceased to exist, then its flag would also come to an end – much like its predecessor League of Nations ceased to exist in 1946.
Why does the flag look the way it does?
Centered in the flag are seven rings that form a flower - the Seed of Life - representing life on Earth. The rings are linked with each other which represents how everything on our planet, directly or indirectly, is interconnected.
The blue field represents water. Water is essential for life and covers the majority of Earth’s surface. The circular shape of flower design can also be viewed as Earth floating in space.
Why are there 7 rings?
When the flag was released, the number of rings represented the seven continents on Earth. This has been removed from the official symbolic explanation as the designer Oskar Pernefeldt does not wish the flag to be what is called “dynamic” in vexillology; in this case, directly linked to the social conventions of the current amount of continents. The seven rings form a flower - the Seed of Life - representing life on Earth.
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