World Environment Day is celebrated each year on June 5 with the aim of encouraging awareness of our ecosystem and its protection.

According to the United Nations, "the celebration of this day provides us with an opportunity to broaden the basis for an enlightened opinion and responsible conduct by individuals, enterprises, and communities in preserving and enhancing the environment."

The day is celebrated by engaging governments, businesses, celebrities, and citizens to focus their efforts on a pressing environmental issue.

One thing we have learned since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic is how much of an impact the loss of an ecosystem can have on our wonderful planet.

Reducing the area of natural habitat can create an ideal environment for pathogens, including the coronavirus, to spread.

Naturally, this would indicate that we have to start taking steps towards actively improving the negative impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss, hoping to improve the livelihood of people in Qatar.

The occasion presents a great opportunity to surprise yourself and inspire others. You can even plan safe and fun activities with your friends and family this World Environment Day.

Here are some simple tips on how you can celebrate and create awareness of the importance of World Environment Day in Qatar starting today.

1. Clean up your local area

Littering can cause a number of problems to the environment and can pollute the air, water, and soil. Consequently, it is super important to be aware of how it can impact the quality of life.

We recommend you identify a specific location such as your local street, the beach, or a local park that can benefit from your hard work.

2. Join virtual classes/seminar about nature and conservation

If your knowledge of the ecosystem and environment preservation is limited, now is a great time to join any workshop or watch relevant videos so that you can educate yourself and others who wish to learn.

It is also advisable to show your support for local initiatives aimed at creating awareness and sustainability in Qatar.

3. Plant a tree or set up a garden

While some may not be aware, it is in fact possible to grow your garden in Qatar despite the temperature or limited space you may have at your home.

Growing flowers or vegetables can be daunting at first but it is immensely rewarding regardless of what and how much you grow.

If you are curious as to what you can grow, we highly recommend you check our article on how to grow your own vegetable garden at home.

4. Conserve your energy at home

There are several things you can do that can conserve energy at home such as turning off the lights when you leave the room, turning the AC temperature up slightly when possible, doing your laundry in cold water, and unplugging unused devices.

You could even make some smart choices that could enhance the energy efficiency, such as switching out your incandescent bulbs for fluorescent bulbs or LEDs. 

5. Visit the Qatar National Museum Garden

The Qatar National Museum has its own garden that showcases native Qatari plants and the historical stories behind them.

Despite going alone or with your loved ones, it certainly will be an educational and refreshing journey.

But most importantly, make sure you have a blast regardless of what activities you have lined up for this year’s World Environment Day.

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