June 5th every year holds significant importance for the environment globally as it marks “World Environment Day.” On this day, numerous activities aimed at environmental protection are intensified and promoted. So, do you really know the history, significance, and theme of this day? Let’s explore more in the following article!
Understanding World Environment Day
What is World Environment Day?
If you are wondering what World Environment Day is, the correct answer is June 5th! This is the day that the United Nations has designated for countries around the world to participate and celebrate this event.
In 2023, World Environment Day falls on Monday, June 5th, 2023.
This is an important day that conveys a meaningful message about the environment.
History and Significance of World Environment Day
Origin of World Environment Day
The origin of World Environment Day dates back to June 5, 1972, when it was first celebrated in Stockholm, Sweden. The United Nations Environment Programme officially announced this significant event, which has been embraced by over 150 countries worldwide since 1972.
During this occasion, environmental protection activities are prominently organized throughout the week surrounding June 5th. Celebrations are held in various countries each year.
Since joining in 1982, Vietnam has actively participated in this global celebration. As a result, our country has engaged in many meaningful activities for the Vietnamese people to join efforts in protecting a green environment. To date, Vietnam has made significant contributions to preserving a clean, beautiful living environment.
Significance of World Environment Day
World Environment Day holds immense significance for the living environment of people around the globe. It serves as an event that inspires the world to unite in promoting awareness and action towards environmental issues, encouraging practical activities to protect the environment.
Each year, there is a different official message for World Environment Day, determined by the Secretary-General of the United Nations and communicated to countries and people worldwide. This message includes guidance on environmental issues and green space protection, urging all nations to come together in commitment.
Above all, this day is crucial for conveying meaningful environmental messages to children—the future stewards of our planet. This understanding will help them realize the importance of protecting the environment and inspire collective action to safeguard our green planet.
Theme of World Environment Day
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In 2023, which marks the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day, the theme chosen for this year’s celebration is “Solutions to Plastic Pollution” with the slogan “Beat Plastic Pollution.”
Activities in Response to World Environment Day
World Environment Day in Different Countries
With over 150 countries participating, a variety of activities are held in response to World Environment Day in different forms and scales. Some notable activities include tree planting, cycling parades for the environment, environmental clean-up campaigns, green concerts, writing and drawing contests, organizing environmental awareness competitions, waste clean-up campaigns, tree-planting initiatives, recycling, and fashion design contests.
World Environment Day in Vietnam
In Vietnam, World Environment Day is warmly celebrated through specific activities such as hanging banners, posters, and panels for awareness campaigns, organizing many rallies, environmental clean-up days, tree planting, and waste collection and treatment initiatives. Efforts also include household waste sorting and management, and the development and implementation of strategies, tasks, proposals, and projects for environmental protection.
