On June 5, the world celebrates World Environment Day, a date established for us to give due recognition to the fragile relationship between humankind and the environment on which we rely. This year’s theme for World Environment Day is Biodiversity. Biodiversity is the variability among plant and animal species found on the planet.  Biodiversity allows human survival and resilience. Sadly, we sometimes enjoy the benefits of biodiversity to its own demise, through over harvesting pollution and habitat destruction.

Our experience dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic has shown that when we reduce our pressures on the environment, for example by driving less and burning less fossil fuels, the planet becomes noticeably healthier and more productive. This is encouragement for us to be more aware of our actions and what effects they have on the natural environment around us. World Environment Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about these issues so that a collective effort can be made to reduce the negative effects.

In observance of World Environment Day, the Government of Saint Lucia partners with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), Saint Lucia National Trust (SLNT) and private sector agencies involved in the management of the environment to host a series of social media and knowledge sharing activities targeting all age groups. These activities aim to inform members of society so that they are equipped to take positive action in favour of nature and reverse environmental destruction.

The Government of Saint Lucia’s Environmental Education team has been developing and distributing videos for inclusion in the online learning system. The Minister for Education and Sustainable Development praised the effort saying “Teachers, parents and all members of society have shown remarkable innovation and resilience during these times. The observance of World Environment Day is another example of how we can work together. The environment is a common asset. We all have a vested interest in doing our small part for the greater good.”

A series of social media challenges under the hashtags #SLUbiodiversity2020 and #BIODIVERSITYSOLUTIONS2020 will be rolled out during the month of June. These are being issued by the Department of Sustainable Development, Forestry and Fisheries Divisions and Water Resource Management Agency of the Department of Agriculture along with Massy Stores. The challenges are an opportunity for all members of the public to reconnect with nature and be reminded of the value of our resources and what is available to us. More information can be found on Facebook at SustainingSaintlucia411.

The staff of all these agencies encourage you to do your part by planting trees, conserving energy, reducing household waste, recycling, saving water, composting, carpooling and carrying your own reusable bags and cups when you go out. For more information on all upcoming events please contact the Department of Sustainable Development at 724- 7134 or 722-9252.