Many of our sailors have witnessed for themselves the giant floating plastic island in the ocean known as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Made up of marine debris, including microplastics and larger items, it floats in the North Pacific Ocean and serves as a stark reminder of our devastating impact on planet Earth.
World Environment Day, observed annually on 5 June, serves as a global platform to raise awareness and promote actions aimed at protecting the environment.
Established by the United Nations in 1974, this day emphasizes the urgent need to address environmental challenges such as pollution, climate change, and habitat loss. It mobilizes governments, organizations, and individuals worldwide to engage in sustainable practices that ensure the health of our planet for future generations.
Biodiversity plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting life on Earth. It encompasses the variety of all living organisms, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. High biodiversity enhances ecosystem resilience by enabling systems to recover from disturbances and adapt to changes.
Furthermore, biodiversity provides essential services such as pollination, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation that are vital for human survival. The loss of biodiversity threatens these services and undermines ecosystem stability.
World Environment Day highlights the interconnectedness between environmental conservation and biodiversity preservation. Protecting biodiversity is imperative not only for ecological integrity but also for sustaining human well-being.
Happy World Environment Day 2025! Let’s work together to make a difference.