World Environment Day

World Environment Day History

World Environment Day offers an opportunity for humanity to reflect on their impact on the environment and consider solutions for a sustainable and cleaner planet. This global initiative strives to raise awareness and encourage individual and collective actions that address environmental issues. World Environment Day empowers people to become active agents of sustainable and eco-friendly development, popularizing the notion of environmental responsibility in all walks of life.

The idea of World Environment Day was conceived at the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in 1972 and is commemorated every year since 1974. For New Zealand, a nation known for its unique biodiversity and awe-inspiring landscapes, the importance of World Environment Day cannot be overstated. The observance highlights challenges faced by the nation such as habitat destruction, climate change, marine pollution, and endemic species at risk, which reinforces the need for urgent and tangible measures to protect Aotearoa's pristine natural beauty for generations to come.

In New Zealand, World Environment Day is marked by a multitude of engaging initiatives that highlight the nation's commitment to the cause. These activities range from conservation and educational events, community clean-up drives, and tree planting initiatives to seminars, conferences, and workshops discussing sustainable practices. New Zealanders from various backgrounds join forces in celebrating World Environment Day, collectively recognizing that the protection of the environment is a shared responsibility. World Environment Day is observed in New Zealand on the 5th of June, providing a platform for increased dialogue, cooperation, and active participation in building a greener future.

World Environment Day facts

• Approximately 70% of Earth's oxygen is produced by marine plants. The remaining 30% is generated by terrestrial plants, including trees and other vegetation.
• The Earth's average temperature has risen by about 1.1 degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times. This is primarily due to human activities.
• It is estimated that about 18 million acres (7.3 million hectares) of forests are lost each year, equivalent to roughly 27 soccer fields per minute.
• Around 80% of New Zealand's native bird species are at risk of extinction, including iconic species such as the kiwi and the kakapo. The country has also lost 90% of its original wetlands, which are important for biodiversity and carbon storage.
• Approximately 85% of Australia's electricity comes from renewable sources, particularly hydroelectricity and geothermal energy.

In the News and Trending in NZ for World Environment Day

Top things to do in NZ for World Environment Day

• The Environmental Media Association hands out awards each year. Take a look at the nominees and winners and consider trying yourself.
• Watch a documentary to learn more about the environmental issues in New Zealand. Here are our suggestions:
  1. River Dog (2011) - This film tells the story of a New Zealand farmer who took it upon himself to protect the country's rivers from pollution and degradation.
  2. Waikato Wetlands (2016) - This documentary focuses on the restoration of the Waikato Wetlands and the species that rely on these unique ecosystems.
  3. Cap Bocage: The Battle for Nickel (2014) - This documentary explores the conflict between a mining company and the local community in New Caledonia, highlighting the environmental and social issues related to the exploitation of natural resources in the South Pacific.
• Read a book to learn more about the environmental issues in New Zealand. Here are our top picks:
  1. Nature and Culture: Environmental Issues in New Zealand by Eric Pawson and Stephen Harris
  2. Vanishing Nature: Facing New Zealand's Wildlife Extinction Crisis by Alison Balance
  3. The Story of the Hauraki Gulf: Discovery, Transformation, Restoration by Raewyn Peart