June 5 marks the annual observance of World Environment Day, uniting more than 150 countries in a shared commitment to environmental protection. As the largest global platform for environmental awareness and action, this day calls on individuals, institutions, and governments to recognize and respond to the urgent ecological challenges facing our planet.
This year, the theme for World Environment Day 2025 is:
“Putting an End to Plastic Pollution”
The campaign aligns with the UNEP-led #BeatPlasticPollution initiative, urging communities worldwide to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their plastic footprint.
How the World Observes Environment Day
From schools and offices to government departments and local bodies, diverse events and activities are organized to raise public awareness. These include:
- Tree plantation drives
- Plastic clean-up campaigns
- Awareness rallies and workshops
- Educational programs for students
- Eco-friendly pledges and initiatives
The spotlight this year is firmly on plastic pollution, a crisis threatening biodiversity, contaminating ecosystems, and impacting human health.
A Brief History of World Environment Day
World Environment Day was established in 1972 during the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm. Later that year, June 5 was officially designated by the UN General Assembly as Environment Day. The first celebration took place in 1973, with the theme “Only One Earth.”
Since then, it has grown into a global movement, with a different host country and theme each year, spotlighting urgent environmental issues.
Why World Environment Day 2025 Matters
Plastic pollution is a triple threat, contributing to:
- Environmental degradation
- Biodiversity loss
- Climate change
Each year, over 11 million tons of plastic waste enter marine environments, while microplastics contaminate soil and water. The estimated global cost of plastic pollution ranges between $300–600 billion annually.
Environment Day is not just about awareness—it’s a call for policy reform, community action, and global collaboration.
India and the Plastic Pollution Crisis
India generates between 9.3 and 9.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually—nearly one-fifth of the global total. The impact is far-reaching:
- Drain blockages, soil contamination, and water pollution
- 5.8 million tonnes of plastic waste burned annually, releasing toxic fumes
- Waste management challenges in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru
- Threats to marine ecosystems along India’s vast coastline
India must respond with tougher bans, expanded recycling programs, and public education on sustainable waste management.
Host Country 2025: Republic of Korea
This year, South Korea is the official host of World Environment Day, with events centered in Jeju Province—a model of eco-conscious living. Jeju aims to become plastic-free by 2040 through:
- Mandatory waste segregation at source
- Boosted recycling systems
- Promotion of eco-tourism
As host, South Korea will lead global discussions, organize cleanup drives, and showcase innovations in plastic alternatives.
Inspire. Inform. Act.
World Environment Day is more than just a date—it’s a movement. Whether by reducing plastic use, educating others, or supporting policy change, everyone has a role in building a cleaner, greener future.
“There is only one Earth. Together, let’s protect it—today and for generations to come.”
“There is only one Earth. Together, let’s protect it—today and for generations to come.”