THEME: “LAND RESTORATION, DESERTIFICATION, AND DROUGHT RESILIENCE”
Background
In 1972, a significant event took place in the realm of international environmental politics. The first major conference on environmental issues, held under the United Nations’ guidance, convened in Stockholm, Sweden from June 5-16. This conference, also known as the Conference on the Human Environment or the Stockholm Conference, aimed to establish a shared understanding of how to tackle the task of preserving and improving the human environment. On December 15 of the same year, the General Assembly passed a resolution (A/RES/2994 (XXVII)) designating June 5 as World Environment Day. It urged governments and UN organizations to conduct global activities on this day each year to reaffirm their commitment to environmental preservation and enhancement. This date is symbolic, as it aligns with the commencement of the historic Conference. Furthermore, on the same day, another resolution (A/RES/2997 (XXVII)) led to the formation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), a specialized agency focused on environmental issues. Since its inception in 1973, World Environment Day has played a vital role in raising awareness and building political momentum around pressing concerns such as ozone layer depletion, hazardous chemicals, desertification, and global warming. It has evolved into a global platform for addressing urgent environmental issues. Millions of people have participated in this day over the years, contributing to changes in consumption habits and influencing national and international environmental policies. Ghana is actively engaged in these efforts. In Ghana, the combined efforts of government agencies, NGOs, corporate institutions, and citizens are essential for tackling environmental challenges such as ‘galamsey’ (illegal mining) and promoting sustainable practices.
Introduction
The World Environment Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and grandeur at the University of Environment and Sustainable Development. The event was a product of a collaborative effort between the University of Environment and Sustainable Development, The Church of Pentecost, and the Sustainable Development Alliance. It was a well-attended gathering, with the presence of the Vice and Pro Vice Chancellors of UESD, representatives from the Forestry Commission, the General Secretary of the Church of Pentecost, faculty and students, high school students, pastors and their wives from the Church of Pentecost, representatives from the Islamic faith, academia, NGOs, representatives from Jospong Group of Companies, the media, and others. The event aimed to significantly increase awareness about environmental protection and to act as a catalyst for stringent enforcement of environmental laws in Ghana, while promoting the adoption of eco-friendly practices. MCs for the event were Aps Dr. Samuel Gapkpetor, Coordinator, Environmental Care Campaign, COP, and Dr. Rosemary Akolaa, UESD, Chairperson of the Planning Committee, World Environment Day 2024.
