World Environment Day 2024
World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5 to raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage action for the protection of our environment. It serves as a reminder that humans and the environment are interdependent, emphasizing the importance of tree planting in our daily lives. Trees are essential for maintaining ecological balance, and their depletion or deforestation directly impacts our health.
History and Significance of World Environment Day:
World Environment Day is observed internationally every year on June 5. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly during the World Environment Conference held from June 5 to June 16, 1972. The first World Environment Day was celebrated on June 5, 1973. This day is marked by events and programs aimed at raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting efforts to protect the environment.
Causes of Environmental Degradation:
A significant portion of India’s land is turning into desert. Trees play a crucial role in cooling the environment and protecting the soil. Recently, a weather center in Delhi recorded an extremely high temperature of 52.9 degrees Celsius. Over 25% of India’s land is becoming desertified. In places like Western Delhi, hot winds from Rajasthan and Haryana exacerbate the situation. Deforestation in the Aravalli region has worsened conditions, as trees help retain moisture. Reduced rainfall and increased temperatures are drying out the land. Sadly, many large trees on agricultural land have disappeared between 2018 and 2022. The rising heat signals the urgent need for policy changes to protect the environment. While advancements in science and technology have been beneficial, they also contribute to environmental pollution. Modernization, industrialization, and increased technological use have had adverse effects on the environment. We need to plant more trees, use eco-friendly construction materials, and adhere to environmental regulations.
Importance of World Environment Day: Pollution is spreading rapidly worldwide, posing a threat to nature. If nature is affected, life is impacted as well. World Environment Day was initiated to protect nature from pollution and raise awareness about environmental issues. People are encouraged to protect nature from pollution. The importance of the environment has been recognized since ancient times, and its conservation is crucial.
Why Environmental Conservation is Essential: Currently, the environment is imbalanced due to increasing population, industrialization, and excessive use of natural resources. Global temperatures are rising, glaciers are melting, and sea levels are increasing, leading to floods. Environmental pollution, climate change, global warming, and the greenhouse effect necessitate environmental conservation. Deforestation is reducing forest areas, and water bodies like rivers and ponds are becoming polluted, making environmental protection imperative.
How to Protect the Environment: To conserve trees, everyone should plant as many trees as possible and prevent tree cutting, as trees provide shade, fruit, and play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Use fertilizers and toxic chemicals minimally in fields, and maximize the use of organic and green manures. Avoid littering in crowded areas and roads and prevent others from doing so. We need to monitor toxic compounds that pollute the environment and adopt environmentally sustainable practices to reduce emissions.
On World Environment Day, let’s plant a tree in every home to purify the environment.