Climate Change focus of World Environment Day on June 5

New Delhi, Jun 4: Global warming, which is dominating the current environmental discourse of the century, will be the focus of World Environemnt Day on June 5. The United Nations Environment Programme(UNEP) has given a slogan for 2008 'Kick the Habit! Towards a Low Carbon Economy' recognising climate change as the defining issue of the era. It has appealed to countries, companies and communities to focus on green house gas emission and how to reduce them.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests here will commemorate this day to create awareness about the effects of global warming and encourage action from masses. It would launch the Environment Ambassador Campaign and presentation of three Indira Gandhi Paryavaran Puraskar and one Young Environmentalist award, which will be given away by the President of India.

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Two publications of the Ministry namely 'Animal Discoveries- 2007', Zoological Survey of India and 'Plant Discoveries-2007', Botanical Survey of India also will be released and presented to the President. The Ministry has on this occasion issued appeals like 'Pick Right! Making the right choices' to pay attention to climate change and making growth sustainable.

Individuals, communities, companies and all policy makers are advised to choose alternatives and good practices that promote energy efficiencies, conservation and sustainable development.

The day will be celebrated throughout the country organising street rallies, bicycle parades, essay and poster competitions in schools, tree plantings, recycling effort and, clean-up campaigns.

The Indira Gandhi Paryavaran Puraskar (IGPP) is given to those who have made measurable and major impact in the protection of environnent. Cash prize, a silver lotus trophy and a citation will be given to two individuals and one organisation. The Ministry received total number of 190 nominations for the year 2005 out of which three have been selected. The Ministry has awarded 32 IGPP since 1987.

The Natural Museum of Natural History also celebrates its 30th Foundation Day tomorrow along with World Environment Day.

UNI