BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Edward Huitarau, Solomon Islands Rangers Association Program Manager, said this year’s World Environment Day focuses on ending plastic pollution.

Mr Huitarau expressed this when he delivered his keynote address during the World Environment Day celebrated at Kiu Community High School in West Are’Are, Malaita province, last week.

He said the event was funded by the European Forest Institute.

“Why is World Environment Day celebrated worldwide on 5th June each year? World Environment Day is celebrated globally to raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage action towards sustainability”

“For decades, plastic pollution has seeped into every corner of the world, leaching into the water we drink, into the food we eat and into our bodies,” he said.

He said while plastic pollution is a major concern, it is also one of the most fixable of today’s environmental challenges, with some obvious solutions at hand.

He said that this year’s theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution”, aligns with the ongoing international negotiations for a legally binding global treaty on plastic pollution, spearheaded by United Nations.

“Plastic has permeated every corner of our planet, from oceans choked with microplastics to overflowing landfills. The 2025 observance calls on governments, industries, communities, schools and individuals to adopt sustainable alternatives, strengthen waste management systems and raise awareness about the long-term impacts of plastic on the environment and biodiversity,” he said.

“This theme isn’t just a warning. It is a call to action to transform how the world produces, consumes and disposes of plastics,” he said.

He said that World Environment Day joins the UNEP-led Ending Plastic Pollution this year to mobilise communities worldwide to implement and advocate for solutions.

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