World Unites to Beat Plastic Pollution in 2025

World Unites to Beat Plastic Pollution in 2025

Why in the News ?

World Environment Day 2025 is being celebrated globally on June 5 with the environment day theme “Beat Plastic Pollution.” Initiated by the UN Environment Programme in 1973, the day promotes environmental action and highlights the urgent need to address plastic pollution and implement effective waste management strategies, including recycling and proper e-waste disposal.

World Environment Day 2025 Observed:

• Celebrated every year on June 5, World Environment Day aims to raise global environmental awareness and promote environmental education.
• Initiated in 1973 by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
• It encourages individuals and governments to take positive environmental actions to protect the planet and combat climate change, including reducing their plastic footprint.

Theme: ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’

• The 2025 theme focuses on tackling the crisis of plastic pollution and promoting sustainable waste management practices.
• Plastic pollution, including microplastics, threatens marine life, clogs urban drains, and infiltrates the food chain, necessitating urgent action.
• The campaign urges:

○ Reduced use of single-use plastic, especially plastic carry bags

○ Recycling plastic waste and reuse

○ Adoption of sustainable packaging and other plastic alternatives

Global Call for Sustainable Action

• Governments, civil society, and individuals are urged to embrace green initiatives and eco-friendly practices, including adherence to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) principles.
• Events, awareness drives, and clean-up campaigns are held globally to promote environmental education and ecosystem protection.
• The day underscores the need for sustainable consumption and production patterns to ensure a healthier planet and address plastic pollution.
• It aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption) and SDG 13 (Climate Change Action).
• The focus on beating plastic pollution complements global environmental policies and initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission in India, which includes efforts towards plastic ban implementation and the enforcement of Plastic Waste Management Rules.
• Emphasis is placed on developing a circular economy approach to waste management, promoting biodegradable alternatives, and addressing the issue of marine litter caused by plastic waste.
• International cooperation is strengthened through initiatives like the G20 Osaka Blue Ocean Vision, which aims to reduce additional pollution by marine plastic litter to zero by 2050.
• The Indian government has launched several initiatives, including the EPR Portal, to facilitate the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility in managing plastic waste.