As we celebrate the World Environment Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1973 and coordinated by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), we are reminded of our collective responsibility to protect and restore our planet. This year's theme, "Our Land, Our Future. We are #GenerationRestoration," highlights a critical issue: the degradation of land and the urgent need to combat desertification and enhance resilience to drought.
Currently, up to 40 per cent of the world's land is degraded, affecting approximately 3.2 billion people globally. Projections indicate that by 2050, over three-quarters of the world's population will be impacted by drought. These alarming statistics underscore the necessity for immediate and sustained action.
Human-induced environmental damage is escalating, with serious consequences such as climate change, ecosystem loss, and widespread desertification. As members of the current generation, it is our duty to reverse this damage. We must prioritise restoring our lands to their natural state, not only for the benefit of the environment but also for the well-being of future generations.
We are #GenerationRestoration. It is within our power to mitigate the impacts of desertification and drought. By raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and taking concrete actions to restore degraded lands, we can ensure a sustainable future for all. On the World Environment Day, let's commit ourselves to protecting our environment and restoring our lands. Our collective efforts today will determine the health and viability of our planet for generations to come.
Asif Islam
Student
Jahangirnagar University
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