World Environment Day today

World Environment Day is being observed across the country on June 5 alongside the rest of the world, with various programmes aimed at raising awareness about environmental protection, pollution control and the urgent need to address climate change.

This year's theme, "Climate Change: Today's Action, Tomorrow's Security," highlights the importance of taking immediate and effective measures to tackle the global climate crisis and safeguard future generations.

Observed in more than 150 countries, World Environment Day is one of the United Nations' largest and most recognised global awareness campaigns, promoting environmental conservation, sustainable development and climate action.

Environmental experts warn that Bangladesh remains one of the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising sea levels, salinity intrusion, river erosion, floods, droughts and increasingly frequent natural disasters continue to threaten the country's environment, agriculture and livelihoods.

They also note that plastic pollution, deteriorating air quality and unplanned urbanization are further intensifying environmental challenges.

In a message marking the occasion, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said the government is implementing a range of initiatives to strengthen environmental protection, climate resilience and sustainable development.

He also announced plans to plant 250 million trees over the next five years, excavate and re-excavate 20,000 kilometers of canals nationwide, expand renewable energy use, promote green industrialization, encourage eco-friendly urban development and improve waste management systems.

In a separate message, President Mohammed Shahabuddin stressed that addressing environmental and climate challenges requires collective action. He called for active participation from government agencies, the private sector, researchers, civil society and citizens to ensure a safe, green and sustainable future for coming generations.

World Environment Day traces its origins to the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment held in Stockholm in 1972, which marked the beginning of coordinated global efforts on environmental protection.

Following the conference, the United Nations designated June 5 as World Environment Day, and it has been observed worldwide since 1973.