On June the 5th, the world celebrates Environment Day; a date set by the United Nations 43 years ago to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment.

Back to 1972, the first campaign had the goal of highlighting ecological issues from marine pollution and global warming to wildlife crime and sustainable consumption.

Over the years, the World Environment Day (WED) was under various themes to finally come up this year with a global challenge to #BeatPlasticPollution.

What is it ?

The UN believes that plastic pollution became epidemic. Every year we throw away enough plastic to circle the earth 4 times, according to UN reports.

For that, it’s urging us to reduce the excessive use of plastic as much of it ends up in the oceans killing the marine life, thus threatening human health.

For the good of our planet, the challenge requires breaking up with the one single-use plastic product (plastic drinking bottles, plastic cutlery and straws, plastic bags …) and substituting it with a reusable or sustainable alternative.

How does it work ?  

Participants are asked to announce their involvement on social media by sharing a photo or a video of the the plastic product they will be giving up, mentioning the @UNenvironment and tagging three people, not forgetting the hashtag #BeatPlasticPollution to help spread the message withing 24 hours.

Celebrities and environmentalists are taking part in this action.

Why wouldn’t you?

For some inspiration, check out the UN’s tips:

Or join the « TAG! You’re IT » frenzy! It’s for a good cause.

#BeatPlasticPollution

#WorldEnvironmentDay