In News:

Every year on June 5, people across the globe unite to celebrate World Environment Day, an initiative led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Key Highlights:

• Observed on: June 5 annually
• Initiated by: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
• First celebrated: 1973 (following the 1972 Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment)
• Objective: Promote global awareness and action for environmental protection

Theme for 2025: "Beat Plastic Pollution"

• Focuses on the escalating crisis of plastic pollution and its adverse impact on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.
• Highlights the need to transition away from single-use plastics, promote sustainable consumption, and adopt eco-friendly alternatives.

Key Statistics:

• Plastic production: Increased from 2 million tonnes (1950) to 430 million tonnes (2025)
• Marine pollution:19–23 million tonnes of plastic enter aquatic ecosystems annually
• Microplastics detected in oceans, mountains, and the human body

Host Country for 2025: Republic of Korea

• Chosen for its leadership in green innovation and sustainable practices.
• Initiatives include:
  • Advanced waste segregation and recycling systems
  • Bans on single-use plastics in major outlets
  • Promotion of tech-driven eco-solutions

By hosting, South Korea aims to showcase scalable models for combating plastic pollution globally.

Historical Background

• Stockholm Conference 1972 laid the foundation for modern environmental governance.
• UNEP assigns a theme and host country annually to align global action.
• Over 150 countries now participate through:
  • Clean-up drives
  • Tree plantation campaigns
  • Policy forums
  • Environmental education programs

Significance

World Environment Day plays a vital role in:

• Raising awareness on climate change, pollution, deforestation, and sustainability
• Encouraging individual and community-level action
• Facilitating policy dialogue and regulatory reform
• Mobilizing youth leadership in environmental movements