World Environment Day – 5th June

Tomorrow, 5th June, is World Environment Day!

World Environment Day is used by the United Nations to promote world wide awareness of the environment. WED was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972 to mark the opening of the Stockholm conference on the Human Environment. A further resolution on the same day led to the United Nations Environment Programme being created.

Kick the Habit! Towards a Low Carbon Economy is the slogan for 2008. The United Nations Environment Programme recognises that climate change is becoming a defining issue and is asking countries, companies and communities to focus on greenhouse gas emissions and how they can be reduced, such as improved energy efficiency, alternative energy sources and eco-friendly consumption. WED will highlight resources and initiatives that promote low carbon economies and lifestyles.

To quote UNEP:-

“On this World Environment Day, let us examine the state of our environment. Let us consider carefully the actions which each of us must take, and then address ourselves to our common task of preserving all life on earth in a mood of sober resolution and quiet confidence.”

There are plenty of steps that can be taken to reduce our carbon footprint and many websites that can offer hints and tips to help us along the way. You can see what events are taking place in your country on the WED website. Don’t forget to check out “12 Steps to Help You Kick the CO2 Habit”.

Earth Hour

Earth Hour is a WWF initiative asking people to turn their lights off for one hour. The initiative came about as a way for the WWF to inspire action on climate change.

Last year 2.2 million people and 2,100 businesses turned off their lights in Sydney. This reduced the city’s energy consumption by 10.2% during that hour, which is equivalent to taking 48,000 cars off the road.

This year the event has gone global. Some of the most famous UK buildings have pledged to take part such as Highgrove House and they are joining iconic landmarks such as the San Francisco Bay Bridge.

Take part in this year’s Earth Hour taking place tonight, Saturday 29^th March between 8.00p.m. and 9.00p.m.