All you Need to Know about World Environment Day

Read to know What is World Environment Day and Why is it celebrated on 5th June?

By Sanjoli Arora

Each year we celebrate our planet’s environment on 5th June. An exercise we have been doing since school. Today brands, organisations and governments mark this day to raise awareness about the planet, its environment and how all of us citizens can help in its conservation.

But what is world environment day, why is it celebrated, why is 5th June marked as world environment day? Learn more about this important day and how you can get involved.

What is World Environment Day?

World Environment Day (WED) is observed annually on 5 June and is the United Nation’s primary vehicle for encouraging awareness of environmental protection. Since its inception in 1974, it has provided an opportunity to raise awareness about environmental issues such as marine pollution, human population growth, global warming, sustainable consumption, and wildlife crime. Over 143 countries participate in World Environment Day every year.

Business enterprises, non-governmental organisations, communities, governments, and celebrities have all advocated for environmental issues through this program.

World Environment Day allows for the sharing of environmental experiences, learning from successes and failures, and working together to improve environmental conditions.

Why is World Environment Day celebrated on 5th June?

5th June was marked as World Environment Day by the United Nations to promote environmental awareness and action. Over the years, it has grown to be the largest global platform for environmental public outreach and is celebrated by millions of people across the world.

History of Environment Day

The United Nations established World Environment Day in 1972 as part of the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment ( 5-16 June 1972). The conference was prompted by discussions about the integration of human interactions and the environment. The first World Environment Day was held two years later, in 1974, with the theme “Only One Earth”. 

The idea of rotating the centre to different countries, where the celebrations take place, began in 1987, even though the WED celebrations have been held every year since 1974.

World Environment Day 2022

World Environment Day 2022 theme, ‘Only One Earth’, focuses on living sustainably in harmony with nature. 2022 marks 50 years since Stockholm Conference which led to the designation of 5 June as World Environment Day.

The celebrations will emphasise the need to live sustainably, in harmony with nature, by facilitating transformative changes to policies and practices that will encourage cleaner, greener lifestyles. ‘Only One Earth’ was the motto of the 1972 Stockholm Conference. 50 years later, the motto remains true. The earth is our only home and we must take care of its finite resources.

“As a proud host of World Environment Day in 2022, Sweden will showcase its initiatives and the global efforts to address climate change and nature crises,” said Per Bolund, Minister for Environment and Climate. International community members are welcome to participate in the vital discussions and celebrations.

Why is World Environment Day important?

World Environment Day is important as it spreads awareness about environmental threats caused by pollution and climate change. Every year, World Environment Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our environment. 

How do I contribute to World Environment Day?

There are many ways to get involved in World Environment Day, from attending local events and protests, to signing petitions and donating to environmental causes. But one of the best things you can do is simply educate yourself and others. There are several pressing issues about our planet that need attention. By spreading awareness, we can all play a part in saving our planet.

Some ways in which you can celebrate the day include

1. Reduce, reuse, and recycle wherever possible.
2. Turn the lights off when you leave a room.
3. Plant a tree and encourage conservation of tress around you.
4. Use energy-efficient light bulbs.
5. Walk or ride your bike instead of driving to reduce pollution.
6. Bring your own bags to the grocery store instead of asking for polybags.
7. Bring a reusable water bottle with you.
8. Avoid using disposable plastics and instead switch to reusable boxes.
9. Compost your food scraps.
10. Support businesses that are environmentally friendly.
11. Educate yourself and others about environmental issues.
12. Vote for politicians who care about the environment. Lobby for laws and regulations that protect the environment.
13. Buy environmentally friendly products.
14. Donate to or volunteer for environmental organisations.
15. Start living sustainably and in a planet-friendly way.

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Sanjoli is currently working as a Content Strategist and has a Master’s degree in Fashion Journalism. She has contributed to publications like MensXP, Mindless Mag and Sustain: The Mag in the past. Conscious Charcha is her way of learning more about sustainability and spreading the word about a sustainable lifestyle.