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WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY

 

By

Kimberly Hall | May 5, 2020

Each year, on June 5, countries across the globe celebrate World Environment Day. It has been observed annually since 1974 to advocate for action for the environment. On this day everyone is encouraged to reflect and discuss solutions to the environmental challenges facing the world. Countries all over the world participate in celebrations to promote environmental causes. World Environment Day 2020 focuses on biodiversity. Biodiversity refers to the wide variety of species on Earth, including large animals, plants, fungi, and the smallest organisms. In the last 50 years, wildlife has declined on an average of 60 percent, while two-thirds of the ocean area has been affected by human activity.

Nature’s ability to sustain all life forms on Earth, while providing for human well-being is declining at an alarming rate. Our quality of life, from the food we eat to the energy we use to the materials we consume, depends on nature. But this comes at the cost of the same services provided by nature, from fresh air to clean water to livable climates and habitats. Changes in land and sea use, misuse of organisms, climate change and pollutions have the greatest impact on nature and all the species that depend on it.

We can still make a change in how we use Earth’s resources. But only by knowing nature can we sustainably harness its benefits while preserving Earth’s biodiversity. Restoring nature is critical for sustaining a healthy planet. There are many ways we can help the environment. The top three ways are the three R’s, reduce, reuse, recycle. Other ways include using energy-efficient light bulbs, turning your computer off overnight, turning off lights when you are not in a room, don’t use coffee stirrers, reduce junk mail, opt-in for e-billing/e-statements and cancel paper statements, and share your knowledge with others. 50 Ways to Help is just one of the many websites that share different ways everyone can help save the environment and the planet. Listed below are more websites with information, lesson plans, and activities to use and share with others.

Information:

Lesson Plans and Activities:

World View, a public service program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, equips K-12 and community college educators with global knowledge, best practices and resources to prepare students to engage in our interconnected and diverse world.

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