World environment day: Why it is celebrated?

To keep our earth and life safe, it’s of utmost importance to keep the environment safe. The nations of the world are moving towards newness at the cost of environmental exploitation, due to which the environment is under real threat. There is a deep connection between man and nature. Life is not possible without nature. In such a scenario, humans must have to be in synchronization with nature. But continuously our environment is getting polluted, because of which numerous types of problems are accelerating, which aren’t just affecting our life but are also causing numerous types of natural disasters. Protection of the Environment is necessary for a healthy and happy life.

Every year on 5th June World Environment Day is celebrated to bring awareness to people of the world to bring awareness regarding safeguarding our mother nature and encourage them to take every possible steps to protect our environment.

Why is 5th June celebrated as Environment Day?

In 1972, the United Nations-led the foundation for the celebration of World Environment Day to address the problems and concerns at the global level associated with environmental pollution. Environment Day was first in the Swedish capital Stockholm. The first environmental conference was held in Stockholm in 1972, where 119 countries participated. The foundation of the United Nations Environment Program( UNEP) was laid at this conference and it was decided to celebrate World Environment Day every year on the 5th of June.  

Purpose of World Environment Day Celebration

The whole creation is dependent on nature and the environment. The air, water, and food needed to live are the products of the environment. Without them, the creation and any living being cannot even be imagined. The environment around us is surrounded by trees, plants, rivers, forests, land, and mountains, etc. This is what is called nature. We take a lot from this nature, but what do we give to nature in return? If we pay attention, for decades we are only polluting the nature

Harnessing the environment. Due to cutting forests, making rivers dirty, polluting the environment, etc., we are creating a dangerous environment for our life and for the coming generation along with ending the existence of nature. In such a situation, by making small efforts, we can protect the environment. If nature is protected then human life will be safe. To fulfill this purpose, World Environment Day is celebrated every year on the 5th of June.

World Environment Day 2023 Theme

The theme chosen for World Environment Day 2023 is “Beat Plastic Pollution.” This year’s theme puts a spotlight on finding solutions to the pressing issue of plastic pollution and is hosted by Côte D’Ivoire1. The primary objectives of this significant occasion are to raise awareness and inspire action for the protection of our environment.

What is the theme for World Environment Day 2022?

The theme of World Environment Day 2022 is “Only One Earth”. Based on this theme the focus is on ‘Living in Harmony with Nature’.

Chipko movement in India

World Environment Day is celebrated every year on 5th June. This day was started with the aim of making people aware of nature conservation. In India too, the voice of people regarding environmental protection arose decades ago, when the Chipko movement started to save trees. It has been 49 years since the Chipko movement. The women of India who did not back down even from losing their lives for the independence of the country, the same women gave the Chipko movement the form of an eco-feminist movement to save the deteriorating environment of independent India, to protect nature. The entire fabric of this movement was woven by women.

The role of women in the Chipko movement was important. Due to his activism and participation, a positive effect was seen in that period. In a few words, it would not be wrong to say that the Chipko movement was led by women. On the occasion of World Environment Day, know about the role of women in the Chipko movement that started in the year 1973 in Uttarakhand in India.

When and how did the Chipko movement start

The Chipko movement is associated with the cutting of forests and trees. Its background is in Uttarakhand, where people started the movement in the 1970s for the protection of forests, during which people used to save trees from being cut by hugging them. Considering it to be a symbol of the love between standard and nature, it was named Chipko Movement.

On 26 March 1974, after auctioning two and a half thousand trees in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, the contractor sent laborers to the forest to cut trees but they came across the women of Raini village, who stuck to the trees to stop the felling. He said that trees should be cut before they are cut. The echo of his fearlessness was heard all over India.

Mother of Chipko Movement

A woman named Gaura Devi led the Chipko movement that started in the village named Raini. Gaura Devi is considered to be the first woman to join the Chipko movement, who led 27 women to stop laborers from cutting trees. Similarly, there was a woman leading the Chipko movement in Rajasthan. Social activist Vandana Shiva’s book ‘Staying Alive: Women Ecology and Survival in India mentions the Chipko movement, in which it is written that more than 300 people of the Bishnoi community in Rajasthan laid down their lives to save trees. Were. In Rajasthan, a woman named Amrita Devi led the Chipko movement to save trees from being cut down.

Women involved in the Chipko movement

Even though people like Chandi Prasad Bhatt and Sunderlal Bahuguna played a major and active role in the Chipko movement, the women of the country prepared the ground for this movement. and made this movement successful. Apart from Gaura Devi of Uttarakhand and Amrita Devi of Rajasthan, many other women have also contributed to the Chipko movement, which few people know about. These include the names of Gandhi’s disciples Mira Ben, Sarla Ben, Bimla Ben, Hima Devi, Ganga Devi, Bachna Devi, Itwari Devi, and Chhamun Devi.

Law on Environment Protection in India

 India is also serious about environmental protection. For this reason, India has made a law for environmental protection. Under this, the Environment Protection Act was enacted on 19 November 1986.

What are some of the human activities that destroy the environment?

Humans and nature have a very profound connection but in the 21st century, Man has exploited nature and become its biggest enemy. The mistakes made by humans have harmed our environment badly so we need to correct them to save our beloved planet. Let’s know what are those mistakes:

Air pollution due to Traffic

Our daily habits actually contribute a lot to air pollution. We usually leave the house with our own vehicle and the smoke and noise coming out of our petrol and diesel vehicles leads to air pollution. To avoid this we should prefer public transport more rather than our own vehicle So that less number of vehicles will be on-road and air pollution decreases.

Water pollution

The organic matter and excreta of cities are being dumped in rivers and lakes, due to which the balance of the environment is deteriorating. This sewage brings with it microbial pathogens, due to which diseases spread. We should avoid dumping household waste and industrial waste in the water bodies.

Air conditioner

It uses lots of energy to operate properly so consumes a lot of electricity and hence releases pollution. It also contributes to global warming. CFCs and HFCs are used as a cooling agent in AC which when released lead to holes in ozone gradually over time. So we should reduce the use of AC to lessen environmental pollution as much as possible.

Use of plastic

From home to office, people generally use plastic bottles, disposable plastic plates, plastic wrappers, etc causing serious harm to the environment. Plastics are nonbiodegradable so burning plastic or dumping it inside the earth both cause severe environmental pollution. So stop using plastic utensils instead use steel or porcelain utensils to save our environment.

The use of polythene

Polythene is the most harmful material to our earth. It cannot be destroyed, burning plastic leads to air pollution. So use paper or cloth bags rather than plastic bags to reduce environmental pollution.

Cutting of trees

People cut down the trees for creating an area to build buildings. Trees give us oxygen but the lack of trees causes pollution in the environment. So instead of cutting the trees plant as many trees as possible to protect our environment.

How Can We Contribute to Save Our Environment

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

The mantra of “reduce, reuse, recycle” is a fundamental principle in waste management and environmental sustainability. By reducing our consumption, reusing items, and recycling materials, we can minimize the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, conserve natural resources, and reduce pollution. Embracing this approach in our daily lives can significantly contribute to a healthier environment.

Conserve Water

Water is a precious resource, and conserving it is of utmost importance. Simple practices like fixing leaky faucets, using water-efficient appliances, and reducing water usage while performing daily tasks such as showering and washing dishes can make a significant difference. By being mindful of our water consumption, we can help preserve this vital resource and ensure its availability for future generations.

Embrace Renewable Energy

Transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power is an effective way to reduce our carbon footprint and combat climate change. Installing solar panels, using energy-efficient appliances, and supporting renewable energy initiatives can contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. Additionally, advocating for renewable energy policies and investments can accelerate the transition to clean energy on a larger scale.

Practice Sustainable Transportation

Transportation is a major contributor to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. To mitigate these impacts, we can opt for sustainable modes of transportation. Carpooling, using public transportation, cycling, or walking whenever feasible not only reduces our carbon footprint but also improves air quality and promotes healthier lifestyles. By making these choices, we contribute to the overall well-being of our environment and ourselves.

Support Local and Sustainable Food

Our food choices have a significant impact on the environment. Supporting local farmers and purchasing organic, seasonal, and sustainably produced food helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation, supports biodiversity, and promotes healthier agricultural practices. Additionally, reducing food waste by planning meals, composting, and donating excess food can further contribute to a sustainable food system.

Plant Trees and Preserve Green Spaces

Trees play a crucial role in combating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. By participating in tree-planting initiatives or supporting organizations engaged in reforestation efforts, we can contribute to creating a healthier and more sustainable environment. Preserving green spaces, such as parks and natural habitats, also protects biodiversity and enhances the quality of our surroundings.

Educate and Advocate

Raising awareness about environmental issues and advocating for sustainable practices is essential for effecting meaningful change. Engage in conversations with friends, family, and your community about the importance of environmental conservation. Support and promote organizations working towards environmental protection, and use your voice to urge policymakers to prioritize sustainability in their decisions.

World Environment Day is not just a celebration but a reminder to take the best care of our surroundings.