World Environment Day:
- It is observed every year on June 5.
- It is led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
- It is an international day dedicated to raising global awareness about environmental issues and encouraging individuals, organisations, and others to take a step towards protecting the planet.
Historical Background:
- World Environment Day was established in 1972 during the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment held in Stockholm.
- The UNEP was established in the same year.
- The UN General Assembly officially designated June 5 as World Environment Day.
- It was first celebrated in 1973 with the theme “Only One Earth,”
- Each year, a host nation spearheads the campaign, which raises awareness of a certain issue.
World Environment Day 2026:
- Host Country 2026: This year, Azerbaijan highlights the planetary crises of climate change and ecosystem degradation and their interconnected impacts on people and nature.