World Environment Day is celebrated annually on the 5th of June, uniting people worldwide in their commitment to addressing pressing environmental concerns. This significant day serves as a global platform for raising awareness and taking action on environmental issues.
As we step into the year 2023, the significance of this Day has become even more pronounced, as we confront unparalleled challenges in our pursuit of a sustainable future.
World Environment Day 2023 Theme
According to the official website the theme on June 5, 2023, will focus on solutions to plastic pollution under the campaign #BeatPlasticPollution.
Every year, World Environment Day provides an opportunity for individuals, communities, and governments to reflect on the state of our planet and collectively work towards a better future.
History of World Environment Day
The origins of World Environment Day can be traced back to the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, held in Stockholm, Sweden, from June 5-16, 1972. This landmark conference was the first of its kind, bringing together representatives from 113 countries, as well as intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations, to discuss environmental challenges and strategies for sustainable development.
World Environment Day was established to foster global awareness and action on environmental issues.
On the final day of the conference, June 5th, 1972, the United Nations established World Environment Day. The goal was to create a platform that would foster worldwide awareness and action on pressing environmental issues.
By designating a specific day dedicated to environmental concerns, the United Nations aimed to encourage governments, organizations, and individuals to reflect on their impact on the environment and take steps to protect and conserve natural resources.
The first World Environment Day had the theme “Only One Earth,
Since its inception, World Environment Day has been celebrated annually, with each year focusing on a specific theme or environmental issue. The themes are chosen to address current environmental challenges, raise awareness, and inspire action. The first World Environment Day in 1974 had the theme “Only One Earth,” emphasizing the importance of global cooperation to protect our shared planet.
Significance
According to the UN, over 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced annually, with less than 10% being recycled. Millions of tonnes end up in water bodies each year, leading to the presence of microplastics in our food, water, and air.
It is estimated that individuals consume over 50,000 plastic particles each year. To combat global warming, greenhouse gas emissions must be halved by 2030. Failure to act will result in a 50% increase in air pollution exposure and tripled plastic waste in aquatic ecosystems by 2040. Immediate action is necessary.
Governments, companies, and stakeholders must prioritize scalable solutions based on available science to address this crisis effectively.