NAIROBI, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of people across the globe will take part in activities that strengthen their bond with the natural habitat during this year's world environment day to be observed on Monday, UN Environment said in a statement issued in Nairobi on Monday.
The global environment body said green enthusiasts from six continents will take part in massive cleanup of beaches, parks and other protected areas to demonstrate their commitment to preserve Mother Nature.
Executive Director of United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) Erik Solheim said that humanity's advancement in science, technology and industrialization was harming the planet hence the need to reverse course.
"Our entire modern life, with its skyscrapers and smartphones, stands on a delicate foundation of natural systems," Solheim remarked.
Today, these foundations are shaking, undermined by man-made climate change, deforestation and extinction. No amount of advanced technology will save us if we destroy and pollute our natural lifeblood," he added.
Canada will host this year's world environment day whose theme is "connecting people with nature".
The Canadian Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Catherine McKenna said her country will join hands with the rest of the world to advance the green agenda.
"We are steadfast in our commitment to address climate change and promote clean growth," said McKenna.
Different countries have organized a series of activities to mark the world environment day that will have far-reaching impact on the health of the planet.
The UNEP's statement revealed that Bosnia and Finland will announce protection of an additional 1,600 square kilometers of land while over 30 iconic landmarks across the globe will be lit in green to demonstrate humanity's love for nature.
At the Mexico-US border, volunteers will undertake massive clean-up of the beaches to reaffirm the importance of protecting oceans from pollution.
Simultaneous clean up of the beaches will be conducted in Mumbai, India, East Africa, Central Europe and Middle East during this year's world environment day.
The UNEP statement noted that governments, corporations and civil society have already identified creative ways to revitalize protection of vital ecosystems as they gear up for this year's world environment day celebrations.
