World Environment Day 2024: History, Theme, & Significance

On June 5th, 2024, as the world marks World Environment Day, a spotlight shines on the pressing issues of land degradation, desertification, and drought resilience. Hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the powerful slogan "Our land. Our future. We are #GenerationRestoration," this year's observance calls for global action and cooperation to restore and protect our planet's vital ecosystems.

In parallel, India emerges as a key player in the fight against climate change, championing a green hydrogen revolution to decarbonize its energy sector and drive sustainable development.

The Indian government has launched several ambitious initiatives to promote green hydrogen production and adoption, including:

1. National Green Hydrogen Mission: This ambitious program aims to make India a global hub for green hydrogen production and utilisation. It includes incentives for green hydrogen production, infrastructure development, and research and development.

2. National Hydrogen Energy Board: This apex body is tasked with coordinating and implementing India's hydrogen strategy, promoting public-private partnerships, and attracting investments in the green hydrogen sector.

3. Green Hydrogen Purchase Obligations: The government is considering mandating certain industries to procure a specified percentage of their energy needs from green hydrogen sources, thereby creating demand and driving market growth.

4. Research and Development Initiatives: India is investing in research and development to lower the cost of green hydrogen production and develop innovative applications across various sectors.

5. Governing Body: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is the nodal ministry responsible for the overall development of the green hydrogen sector in India.

Date	5 June
Origin	It was initiated in 1972 by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to mark the first day of the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment.
Objective	To raise global awareness and promote action to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices.
Organised by	(UNEP) : United Nations Environment Programme
Theme	World Environment Day, an annual event, highlights a specific environmental issue through its central theme. In 2024, the theme will be “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,” bringing attention to these critical environmental concerns.
Slogan	World Environment Day annually highlights a compelling slogan that aligns with the designated theme. For instance, the 2024 slogan reads, “Our land. Our future. We are #GenerationRestoration.”
Host Country	During the annual World Environment Day, one particular nation or region might assume a more prominent role as the host country for major events and raising awareness related to the chosen theme. In 2024, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will have the privilege of being the host country for the World Environment Day.

Key Events:

1. Arab Forum for Environment (June 3rd-4th): Addresses land degradation and drought in the Arab region.

2. World Environment Day (June 5th): Global observance with events worldwide.

Significance:

1. Raises awareness about land degradation, desertification, and drought.
2. Promotes global action and cooperation on environmental issues.
3. Emphasises youth involvement in environmental restoration.
4. Aligns with the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration and Sustainable Development Goals.

India's Green Hydrogen Revolution:

India's Energy Transition:

1. Committed to reducing carbon emissions and achieving net-zero.
2. Expanding renewable energy capacity.
3. Active participant in international climate agreements.

Green Hydrogen's Role:

1. Potential to replace fossil fuels in power generation.
2. Decarbonizes industries like steel, refineries, and fertiliser production.
3. Promising solution for India's growing energy needs.

India's Green Hydrogen Policy:

1. Targets 5 million metric tonnes annual production capacity.
2. Aims to reduce fossil fuel imports and greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Creates employment opportunities.

Innovations in Green Hydrogen:

1. High-temperature electrolysis for increased efficiency.
2. Photoelectrochemical water splitting using sunlight.

Conclusion:

Green hydrogen holds significant potential for India's energy revolution. Collaboration, innovation, and sustained efforts are crucial to unlock its full potential and achieve a cleaner, greener future.

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