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New Delhi, 5th June 2024: Today, the world unites to celebrate World Environment Day, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about environmental issues and encouraging global action for the protection of our planet. This year’s theme, “Our Nature, Our Heritage,” emphasizes the intrinsic connection between the environment and our cultural heritage, urging communities worldwide to protect natural resources and biodiversity.

World Environment Council Launches 2024 Campaign

In honor of World Environment Day, the World Environment Council has launched a new campaign titled “Our Nature, Our Heritage.” The initiative aims to inspire individuals and organizations to take proactive steps in safeguarding the environment, focusing on critical areas such as:

  • Earth Protection: Promoting sustainable practices to mitigate climate change and reduce pollution.
  • Environmental Conservation: Encouraging the preservation of natural habitats and ecosystems.
  • Nature Conservation: Highlighting the importance of biodiversity and the need to protect wildlife.
  • Heritage Preservation: Recognizing the role of natural landscapes in cultural heritage and fostering their conservation.
  • Tree Planting: Organizing tree-planting drives to enhance green cover and combat deforestation.

Join the Campaign

The World Environment Council invites everyone to join this vital campaign. Whether through local community efforts, corporate initiatives, or individual actions, every contribution counts. Participants can get involved in various activities, such as tree planting, recycling drives, clean-up efforts, and educational programs.

Highlights of the Day

  1. Virtual Events and Webinars: The World Environment Council is hosting a series of online events featuring experts and environmentalists discussing sustainable practices, innovative solutions, and the importance of environmental stewardship.
  2. Community Clean-ups: Across cities and towns, volunteers are organizing clean-up drives to remove litter from public spaces, rivers, and beaches, promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.
  3. Tree Planting Initiatives: Numerous tree planting events are taking place, with a special focus on native species that support local ecosystems and biodiversity.
  4. Educational Outreach: Schools and universities are conducting workshops and seminars to educate students about environmental issues and the significance of sustainable living.
  5. Corporate Participation: Many businesses are launching green initiatives, such as reducing plastic use, promoting energy efficiency, and supporting conservation projects.

A Global Movement

World Environment Day, established by the United Nations in 1972, has grown into a global platform for public outreach, with millions of people from over 100 countries participating annually. It serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.

The Importance of Action

As global challenges like climate change, deforestation, and pollution continue to threaten our planet, the need for concerted action has never been more urgent. World Environment Day provides an opportunity for individuals and communities to reflect on their environmental impact and commit to making positive changes.

Final Thoughts

The “Our Nature, Our Heritage” campaign by Prof. Ganesh Channa President the World Environment Council is a call to action for everyone to play a part in creating a sustainable future. By joining this campaign, we can collectively work towards a healthier planet, ensuring that our natural and cultural heritage is preserved for generations to come.

For more information and to get involved in the campaign, visit the World Environment Council’s website www.wec.org.in

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Today, April 22, marks Earth Day, a global event dedicated to raising awareness and promoting environmental conservation efforts. Originating in the United States in 1970, Earth Day has evolved into a worldwide movement, mobilizing over a billion individuals in more than 192 countries.

The significance of April 22 stems from its historical context. Following a devastating oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara, US Senator Gaylord Nelson envisioned a platform to channel the growing concern over environmental issues. Teaming up with activist Denis Hayes, Nelson orchestrated campus teach-ins to galvanize public consciousness about air and water pollution. The chosen date, a weekday between Spring Break and Final Exams, strategically aimed to maximize student engagement.

Over the years, Earth Day has transcended its initial scope, expanding into a global phenomenon. In 2016, the United Nations selected April 22 as the day to sign the Paris Accord, a landmark agreement in the fight against climate change. With leaders from 196 nations committing to curbing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting global warming to 1.5°C, the Accord signifies a pivotal moment in environmental history.

This year, Earth Day adopts the theme ‘Planet vs. Plastics,’ highlighting the urgent need to address the proliferation of plastic pollution. Under this banner, diverse stakeholders, including students, businesses, governments, and NGOs, converge in a united front against plastic waste. The overarching goal is to achieve a 60% reduction in plastic production by 2040 and ultimately pave the way for a plastic-free future.

The ‘Planet vs. Plastics’ initiative underscores the collective responsibility to safeguard human and planetary health. By advocating for sustainable practices and policies, Earth Day advocates aspire to build a cleaner, healthier world for future generations.

As Earth Day celebrations unfold worldwide, the call to action resonates louder than ever: it’s time to confront the plastic crisis and embrace a more sustainable path forward.

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In the wake of the recent torrential rainfall in Dubai, a contentious debate has emerged within the meteorological community regarding the role of cloud seeding in inducing precipitation. While some attribute the heavy downpour to cloud seeding operations, others remain skeptical, sparking a discourse on the potential diplomatic and environmental ramifications of such weather modification techniques.

Leading meteorologist Johan Jaques, Senior Meteorologist at environmental technology company KISTERS, has cautioned against the proliferation of cloud seeding practices, warning of potential “weather wars” between nations if the technology is not used judiciously. Jaques emphasizes the unpredictable nature of altering weather patterns through artificial means, highlighting the risk of unintended consequences.

“Cloud seeding aims to enhance and accelerate the precipitation process, particularly in regions experiencing prolonged dry spells. However, intense precipitation resulting from such interventions can lead to unforeseen challenges, including flash floods,” Jaques remarked in a statement.

He further underscored the inherent uncertainty associated with cloud seeding, noting the inability to precisely predict the outcomes of such interventions. While cloud seeding may bring much-needed rainfall to certain areas, Jaques cautioned that it could exacerbate drought conditions and trigger flash floods elsewhere.

Despite speculation linking the Dubai rainfall to cloud seeding efforts, there is no conclusive evidence to support these claims. The UAE government agency responsible for overseeing cloud seeding operations has refuted allegations of conducting such activities prior to the storm.

In response to the adverse effects of the heavy rainfall, President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has directed authorities to assess the damage and provide assistance to affected families, as reported by the UAE state news agency.

The controversy surrounding cloud seeding and its potential impact on weather patterns underscores the need for comprehensive evaluation and regulation of weather modification technologies. As meteorologists and policymakers navigate this complex terrain, the debate continues to evolve, raising critical questions about the ethical and environmental implications of altering natural weather systems.

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Plastics have long been recognized for their detrimental impact on the environment, but a groundbreaking study published in the New England Journal of Medicine sheds light on their potential harm to human health. The study, titled “Microplastics and Nanoplastics (MNP) in Atheromas and Cardiovascular Events,” delves into the association between microplastics (MNPs) and cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

Led by Dr. Sanjay Rajagopalan, Chief of Cardiovascular Medicine at University Hospitals and Herman Hellerstein Professor of Medicine at Case Western Reserve School of Medicine in Cleveland, U.S., the study examined over 200 individuals undergoing carotid endarterectomy, a surgical procedure to remove blockages in the carotid artery. The findings revealed that 58% of patients had detectable amounts of polyethylene, commonly found in food containers and wrappers, in their excised carotid plaque. Additionally, 12% of patients exhibited measurable amounts of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), commonly used in pipes and structural materials.

Over a follow-up period of nearly three years, individuals with evidence of plastics in their arteries were found to be 4.5 times more likely to experience a heart attack, stroke, or death compared to those without plastic residues in their arteries. This correlation underscores the potential health risks posed by microplastics and their impact on cardiovascular health.

While the study does not establish causality, it raises significant concerns about the presence of plastics in human tissues and their association with adverse health outcomes. Dr. Rajagopalan emphasized the importance of exercising caution in the use of plastics, particularly in food storage and preparation. He recommended opting for alternative containers such as glass or steel and avoiding the purchase of plastic water bottles in favor of reusable stainless steel containers.

Furthermore, Dr. Rajagopalan stressed the importance of responsible plastic disposal to mitigate the widespread contamination of the environment with plastics. As the detrimental effects of microplastics on human health continue to emerge, the study underscores the need for greater awareness and regulation to safeguard public health against plastic pollution.

The findings of this study serve as a wake-up call regarding the potential health risks associated with plastic exposure, urging individuals and policymakers alike to take proactive measures to address this pressing issue.

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On the occasion of World Water Day 2024 this article by Prof. Ganesh Channa (President World Environment Council) Water is one of the most vital resources for life on Earth, yet its availability and quality are increasingly under threat, giving rise to a global water crisis. This crisis stems from a combination of factors including population growth, climate change, pollution, and unsustainable water management practices. In this article, we delve into the current challenges and trends in water availability and quality worldwide.

Water Scarcity:

One of the most pressing issues facing the world today is water scarcity. With the global population expected to reach nearly 10 billion by 2050, the demand for freshwater is rapidly outpacing its supply. According to the United Nations, more than two billion people currently live in countries experiencing high water stress, and this number is expected to rise.

Climate Change Impact:

Climate change exacerbates the water crisis by altering precipitation patterns, increasing the frequency and intensity of droughts and floods, and melting glaciers and ice caps. These changes disrupt the water cycle, leading to uncertainty in water availability and distribution. Regions that rely on seasonal rainfall for agriculture and drinking water face heightened risks, exacerbating food insecurity and threatening ecosystems.

Water Pollution:

Water pollution poses a significant threat to both human health and the environment. Industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, untreated sewage, and plastic waste contaminate rivers, lakes, and oceans, rendering water sources unfit for consumption and recreation. Polluted water not only jeopardizes human health through waterborne diseases but also harms aquatic ecosystems, leading to declines in biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Groundwater Depletion:

Excessive extraction of groundwater for agriculture, industry, and municipal use is depleting aquifers faster than they can recharge. This overexploitation of groundwater leads to land subsidence, saltwater intrusion in coastal areas, and the loss of vital ecosystems such as wetlands. Groundwater depletion also undermines the resilience of communities during droughts, as they rely on groundwater as a buffer against water scarcity.

Urbanization and Water Stress:

Rapid urbanization exacerbates water stress in cities, as growing populations increase water demand for drinking, sanitation, and industrial purposes. Many urban areas face challenges in providing safe and reliable water supply and sanitation services to all residents, leading to inequalities in access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Informal settlements often bear the brunt of inadequate water infrastructure, heightening health risks and social disparities.

Water Governance and Management:

Effective water governance and management are essential for addressing the global water crisis. Integrated water resource management approaches that consider the interconnectedness of water systems, ecosystems, and human activities are crucial for sustainable water use. Promoting water conservation, improving water infrastructure, implementing water-saving technologies, and enhancing water governance frameworks can help mitigate the impacts of the water crisis and build resilience to future challenges.

International Cooperation and Partnerships:

Given the transboundary nature of many water resources, international cooperation and partnerships are vital for addressing the global water crisis. Collaborative efforts among governments, stakeholders, and communities can promote equitable and sustainable water management practices, facilitate knowledge sharing, and mobilize resources for water-related projects and initiatives.

In conclusion, the global water crisis presents complex challenges that require urgent and concerted action at local, national, and international levels. By understanding the current trends and challenges in water availability and quality, we can work towards sustainable solutions that ensure water security for present and future generations. From conservation and pollution prevention to equitable access and governance reforms, addressing the global water crisis requires collective efforts and commitment to safeguard this precious resource for all.

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In a concerning revelation for consumers and environmentalists alike, a new study conducted by the environmental NGO Toxics Link has found a significant presence of toxic chemicals in recycled plastic products available in Delhi’s markets. The report, titled “Is Plastic Recycling Safe?”, underscores the potential health hazards associated with using recycled plastic items, particularly those that come into direct contact with food or are used by children.

The Toxics Link team collected samples from 15 different types of recycled plastic products, ranging from non-branded food and drink containers to children’s toys, sourced from both formal markets and informal plastic recycling units across Delhi. Their findings showed that a vast majority of these items contained harmful substances, including phthalates, chlorinated paraffins, heavy metals, bisphenol A (BPA), and nonylphenol, known for their adverse effects on human health. Such effects can range from reproductive issues and pregnancy complications to respiratory problems, skin conditions, and even DNA damage.

Alarmingly, the study revealed that 86% of the toy samples and 67% of the food-contact plastic materials tested positive for one or more of these hazardous chemicals. Specific examples cited in the report include rubber ducks harboring high levels of single-chain chlorinated paraffins, cadmium, nonylphenol, and phthalates, and a mouth organ containing bisphenol A, nonylphenol, and an exceptionally high concentration of the DEHP phthalate.

Priti Banthia Mahesh, Chief Programme Coordinator at Toxics Link and lead researcher of the study, expressed concern over the findings, emphasizing the need to critically assess the safety of current plastic recycling practices. The investigation suggests that the contamination could occur during the recycling process or might be present in the original products being recycled. The addition of colors during recycling, for instance, has been identified as a potential source of heavy metal contamination.

The implications of these findings are significant, not only highlighting the potential health risks posed by recycled plastic products but also raising questions about the efficacy of recycling as a solution to plastic pollution. The study calls for strict regulatory oversight of plastic recycling in Delhi and across India, with Toxics Link’s associate director, Satish Sinha, advocating for a more cautious approach to plastic recycling, given the serious threat it poses to human health.

This study serves as a crucial reminder of the complexities involved in managing plastic waste and the importance of ensuring safety and sustainability in recycling practices. As consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their choices, the demand for stricter regulations and safer recycling methods is likely to grow, urging policymakers and industry stakeholders to take action.

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A recent study conducted by emissions data analysis firm Emission Analytics has cast a shadow over the perceived environmental benefits of electric vehicles (EVs), revealing that they might emit more particle pollution than their petrol and diesel counterparts. This revelation comes at a time when the world is increasingly turning to EVs as a solution to combat climate change, driven by the belief that they offer a cleaner alternative to fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

The Weight of the Matter: Electric Vehicles Under Scrutiny

Central to the study’s findings is the significant particulate matter released from the brakes and tires of vehicles. Unlike petrol and diesel cars that have seen substantial improvements in exhaust filtration systems, EVs, with their heavier weight due to large batteries, exert more pressure on their brakes and tires. This increased wear and tear lead to a higher emission of toxic particles. According to Emission Analytics, the particulate matter released from the wear of brakes and tires in EVs could be as much as 1,850 times greater than that from modern gas-powered vehicles.

The Heavy Toll of EV Batteries

The study points to the hefty batteries that power EVs as a primary contributor to this environmental concern. With EVs like the Tesla Model Y and Ford F-150 Lightning featuring batteries that weigh around 1,800 pounds, the strain on tires and brakes intensifies, accelerating the degradation process and, subsequently, the emission of harmful particles. Specifically, tyre wear emissions from an EV with a half-tonne battery are suggested to be over 400 times higher than exhaust emissions from a contemporary petrol vehicle.

Rethinking Environmental Impact Assessments

While the automotive industry and environmental policy have largely focused on reducing tailpipe emissions in the transition to electric mobility, this study underscores the necessity of broadening the scope of environmental impact assessments. The findings highlight the importance of considering non-exhaust emissions, such as those arising from tire and brake wear, in the overall evaluation of a vehicle’s environmental footprint.

Implications for Future Mobility Solutions

The implications of these findings are significant, suggesting that the move towards electric mobility may not be as environmentally benign as previously thought. This calls for a reevaluation of strategies aimed at reducing the transportation sector’s impact on the planet. Innovations in vehicle design, such as lighter materials for batteries and improvements in tire composition, could mitigate these issues, ensuring that electric vehicles can truly deliver on their promise of cleaner transportation.

As the conversation around sustainable mobility evolves, it’s clear that a holistic approach to assessing environmental impact—beyond just tailpipe emissions—is essential. Only by addressing all sources of pollution can the dream of a truly green transportation future be realized.

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New Delhi – With a resolute commitment to environmental sustainability, the World Environment Council’s President Prof. Ganesh Channa today is announcing the launch of its second global campaign for the “Environment Protection Bank” program, approved by the United Nations. Set to commence on 1st Jan 2024, this initiative is poised to make significant strides in instilling a sense of environmental responsibility in the hearts of students in schools and colleges across the globe.

The “Environment Protection Bank” program is a pioneering effort designed to empower educational institutions to become active contributors to environmental conservation. Endorsed by the United Nations, the program introduces a unique approach to fostering sustainability by encouraging schools and colleges to adopt eco-friendly practices and initiatives.

Key Objectives of the Campaign:

Global Participation: The campaign invites educational institutions worldwide to participate in this transformative program, fostering a united front in the global fight for environmental protection.

Hands-On Learning: The “Environment Protection Bank” program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning experiences to enable students to actively engage with environmental issues and solutions.

UN-Approved Curriculum: Leveraging the expertise of the World Environment Council and UN guidelines, the program integrates an UN-approved curriculum focused on environmental conservation and sustainable practices.

Incentivized Eco-Actions: Schools and colleges participating in the program will be encouraged to undertake eco-friendly initiatives, with tangible incentives provided through the “Environment Protection Bank.”

Youth Empowerment: The program aims to empower the youth to be ambassadors of environmental change, fostering a generation that is not only aware of environmental challenges but actively works towards solutions.

Why “Environment Protection Bank”?

The concept of an “Environment Protection Bank” is rooted in the idea that every positive action for the environment is an investment in our shared future. By fostering a culture of environmental responsibility within educational institutions, the program aims to create a ripple effect, influencing broader communities and societies.

How Schools and Colleges Can Participate:

Educational institutions interested in joining this global movement can register for the campaign on the World Environment Council’s official website. Detailed information about the program, curriculum, and participation guidelines is available to ensure a seamless and impactful integration of the “Environment Protection Bank” in schools and colleges worldwide.

The World Environment Council invites schools, colleges, educators, and students to join hands in this collective effort to build a sustainable future for our planet.

For more information and to register for the campaign, please visit World Environment Council’s official website: www.wec.org.in or contact +91-8130305369 Email id: worldenvironmentcouncil@gmail.com. Together, let’s bank on a greener future!

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Climate change is a big problem, but two young heroes are making a difference! Michelle Zárate Palomec from Mexico and Sebastian Mwaura from Kenya have been chosen for the UN Global Climate Action Awards. Let’s dive into their incredible stories.

Michelle Zárate Palomec: Water Warrior from Mexico

At the age of 27, Michelle is doing amazing things in her community in Oaxaca, Mexico. She is part of a group called Espacio de Encuentro de las Culturas Originarias. Together, they are helping indigenous communities get clean and enough water. In places where water is scarce and pollution makes life tough, Michelle is a hero.

The project helps these communities with cool and affordable technologies for cleaning water, fixing small areas, and being ready for bad weather. Michelle is the winner in the “resilient nature” category because of her work in making communities strong against challenges.

Sebastian Mwaura: Powering Change in Kenya

Sebastian, who is 35, is making waves in Kenya. He started Yna Kenya to speed up the use of electric cars. But he didn’t stop there. He also created the HerGo program to get more women into driving and owning electric cars. His plan is not just about cars but about using clean energy to power them.

Sebastian is the winner in the “energy transition” category. He believes using electric cars and having many places to charge them is a big part of making our future safe from climate change.

A Big Celebration Coming Up!

The UN Global Climate Action Awards will be given to Michelle and Sebastian on December 8, 2023, in Dubai. The event will be super cool with a famous journalist and climate supporter, Sophia Li, hosting. AY Young, who is not just a great singer but also a leader for the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, will perform. There will also be music from Erick Marques, a DJ from Brazil.

Simon Stiell, the big boss at UN Climate Change, will speak at the ceremony. It’s going to be a celebration of these young leaders and their awesome efforts!

Why This Matters?

These awards are not just about clapping for Michelle and Sebastian. They show us that young people can make a big change. It’s like saying, “Hey, we can solve the climate problem if we work together!” Michelle and Sebastian are like superheroes, and their work is an example for all of us.

Thanks to UN Climate Change and partners like the International Renewable Energy Agency, the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and the United Arab Emirates for making these awards happen. Let’s celebrate the young heroes and hope their stories inspire more amazing actions for our planet!

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The UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell, has issued an urgent call to action as world leaders gather in Dubai for the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

In his opening remarks at the COP28 plenary, Stiell warned that the world is “on the brink of climate catastrophe” and that “we need to act now, and with unprecedented urgency, to avert a climate disaster.”

“The science is clear: we are running out of time to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius,” Stiell said. “We need to cut global emissions in half by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050.”

Stiell called on world leaders to “accelerate climate action” by:

  • Ambitiously reducing greenhouse gas emissions
  • Providing adequate finance for climate action
  • Building resilience to climate change impacts
  • Adapting to the impacts of climate change that are already happening

“We can still avoid the worst impacts of climate change, but we need to act now,” Stiell said. “We need to make a fundamental shift in our relationship with the planet. We need to move from a fossil fuel-based economy to a clean, renewable energy economy.”

Stiell’s call to action comes as the world faces a number of climate-related crises, including extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and mass displacement.

COP28 is seen as a crucial opportunity for world leaders to make progress on climate action. The conference is taking place in Dubai from November 30 to December 12.

Key priorities for COP28

In addition to the urgent call to action, Stiell also outlined a number of key priorities for COP28. These include:

  • Accelerating the implementation of the Paris Agreement
  • Addressing loss and damage from climate change
  • Enhancing climate finance
  • Supporting the most vulnerable countries

“COP28 must be a moment of action and transformation,” Stiell said. “We need to leave Dubai with concrete commitments to reduce emissions, build resilience, and address loss and damage.”

World leaders must heed the call to action

World leaders have a responsibility to heed the call to action and take urgent action on climate change. The future of our planet depends on it.

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