Today is ‘World Environment Day’, the UN’s way of reminding us that we should be aware of environmental issues and be activists for the natural world, not just passive observers. It has been held on 5th June since 1974 and is now marked in 143 countries across the world. Every year there is a different theme, and this time around it is all about our personal connection to nature, namely ‘Connecting People to Nature: in the city and on the land, from the poles to the equator’. When it comes down to it, without personal connection (and thinking about our personal connection) it is impossible for a person to care about, and therefore want to protect and conserve the natural world. Events such as the Earth Optimism Summit, which took place earlier this year, have set out to remind people what is and can happen to protect nature all over the world, but ultimately we need to take responsibility for ourselves. It needn’t be difficult. Even ensuring you limit the amount of plastic you buy or use, or do a litter pick can help. Why not join a local conservation volunteering group or read some books about conservation, to educate yourself and your family as to the problems we face and some of the proposed solutions? More than anything though, today is about reminding ourselves to connect with nature, by walking, working and being in it, and to care about this connection.
A perfectly connected current campaign is the Wildlife Trusts’ 30 Days Wild challenge – open to all ages. It’s running throughout June, and it’s never too late to get involved!
thinkingcountry.com 