The United Nations General Assembly established World Environment Day (WED) in 1972. The 5th of June was declared to be the annual date for commemorating this auspicious day. WED is recognized worldwide with the aim of raising awareness on the critical importance of preserving the earth. It was first observed by the United States in 1974. This year WED is being hosted by Sweden under the theme, “Only One Earth”, focuses on living sustainably in harmony with nature.
On Friday 3rd June, 2022, Mrs. Gomez, a representative from the Environmental Management Authority, presented Naparima Girls’ High School with a Pride of Barbados plant in celebration of WED. The Eco-activists club led by Mrs. Lall-Soobrattee, with the assistance of a few club members, planted the tree near to the school’s car park.
At home, there are many ways to get involved in the conservation of the environment. It can range from recycling to simple behavioral practices like considering the packaging of products before purchasing them. Persons can join community cleanups or even volunteer to support local environmental organizations. At school, some extracurricular activities may be available which serve this same purpose. To save our planet, students can eliminate littering, reduce paper consumption, and carpool to school when possible. Finally, raising awareness plays a vital role as society must become educated on potential threats to their surroundings, and their part in securing the land that we live in.