Zimbabwe joins world in observing World Earth Day and Earth Hour

ZIMBABWEANS this Monday joined the rest of the world in observing World Earth Day and Earth Hour amid calls to take action against pollution particularly caused by plastic.

The theme aims to bring attention to the serious issue of plastic pollution and how it harms nature.

World Earth Day is an annual event observed across the globe to demonstrate support for environmental protection.

It reminds the world about the importance of environment conservation and sustainability, encouraging people to come together and take action for a healthier planet and brighter future.

The day raises awareness and inspires change, fostering a deep connection with nature, and EarthDay.org demands 60 percent reduction in the production of all plastics by 2040.

The day’s history dates back to 1970 in the United States where a Senator approached a Harvard University student to mobilise students to demonstrate after getting disturbed by the deteriorating environment and oil spill in 1969 in Santa Barbara, Califonia.

In 1990 Earth Day became a global event cutting across borders.

It is celebrated on 22 April and an hour is also set aside between 8:30pm and 9:30pm to observe Earth Hour.

Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust observed the day by calling for action against plastics.

“As we commemorate earth day today, we confront the stark reality of the battle between our planet and plastic pollution. This year’s theme: “Planet vs Plastic” serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address the global crisis of plastic waste,” said the VFWT.

Green Shango Environment Trust, a Hwange based organisation also joined the world in calling for an end to various forms of pollution in the coal mining town.

Its director Mr Daniel Sithole said the day is call to action.

“We stand with the global community this earth hour 8:30pm to 9:30pm. Our commitment to a sustainable planet is unwavering especially as we witness the impacts of heavy dust pollution and land degradation at our doorstep.

“We embrace the theme “Give an hour for for Earth” as a call to action. It’s more than turning off lights its about dedicating time to reflect, reconnect, and reignite our collective responsibility towards our planet,” said Mr Sithole.

He said the day is a time to realise that our actions have power to reflect on the beauty that still exists and to strategise on how we can protect and restore our earth, as well as to reflect on the impact of pollution and climate change in our operations.

It’s am opportunity to reconnect with nature appreciating the biodiversity that thrives in Hwange National Park, said Mr Sithole.

“Together we can turn an hour of darkness into a beacon of hope for a pollution free, drought resistant and climate resilient future. Let’s use this time to think about strategies that safeguard our planet,” he said.

Earth Hour is an initiative to encourage individuals, businesses and governments around the world to take accountability for their ecological footprint and engage in dialogue and resource exchange that provides real solutions to our environmental challenges.

This comes as the world is battling climate change with a call for a ban on various forms of pollutants.