World Environment Day 2012: “Green Economy: Does it include you?”

 

The 2012 theme for World Environment Day is Green Economy: Does it include you? Evidently, there are two parts to this theme and the first tackles the subject of the Green Economy. This is where some people shut off their minds because they find the concept of the Green Economy a little too complex to understand. On the contrary, the Green Economy is really something that is applicable all around you and it is easy to imagine how one can fit in it.  

The UN Environment Programme defines the Green Economy as one that results in improved human well-being and social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities. In its simplest expression, a green economy can be thought of as one which is low carbon, resource efficient and socially inclusive.

Practically speaking, a Green Economy is one whose growth in income and employment is driven by public and private investments that reduce carbon emissions and pollution, enhance energy and resource efficiency, and prevent the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services. These investments need to be catalyzed and supported by targeted public expenditure, policy reforms and regulation changes.

But what does all this mean for you? Well, this essentially what the second part of the theme is all about. If the Green Economy is about social equity and inclusiveness then technically it is all about you! The question therefore asks you to find out more about the Green Economy and assess whether, in your country, you are being included in it.

To learn more about the Green Economy bookmark the World Environment Day website, or follow UNEP on Twitter and Facebook, and we shall be unraveling the concept of what the Green Economy really is and what it means to you ahead of World Environment Day.


In the local context, an exhibition on climate change was held at the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre, with the financial support of the Japanese Government, through the UNDP under the Africa Adaptation Programme to mark this day. The World Environment Day celebrations have continued to provide a vehicle to stimulate environmental consciousness, create awareness and educate the public on environmental issues.
This exhibition will create awareness among the students and the public on the issue of climate change and expose them to a wide range of information sources about the topic such as panel based exhibitions, interactive exhibits, games and documentary films so that they learn in a fun and informal manner. Go and Visit i!!!!!!!!!!!!!!