There has been a lot alarms as regards to the problem of global warming and yet the experts say it is on the rampant due to the bad climate changes, the continuous cutting of trees and many other reasons. However, every 5th of June is a day used by the United Nations to stimulate worldwide awareness of environmental issues and encourages political action. It was established by the UN Assembly in 1972 to mark the opening of Stockholm conference on human environment. World Environment Day (WED) is one of the practical channels through which the countries worldwide raise awareness of the environment and enhance both individual and political attention and action. This year’s theme is “Your country needs you-let us unite to combat climate change”. Africa as whole contributes only 3% of gases that lead to global warming and climate change, none the less African countries Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania and Kenya inclusive face the highest risks associated with climate change/global warming. WED 2009 celebrations will focus on the solutions, opportunities for countries, companies and communities to “Unite to Combat Climate Change”. Measures include, water shade management and maintenance, tree planting to counter rises in greenhouse gases. An estimated 20 per cent of emissions contributing to Climate Change globally are as a result of deforestation. The day’s agenda is to alert people of the environmental issues, empower them to become active agents of sustainable and equitable development and advocate partnership which will ensure all nations and peoples enjoy a safer and more prosperous future. There are some social and economic effects on climate change; Constraint on livelihoods activities leading to a decline in water rights, insecurity, rising unemployment and spread of HIV/AIDS in the long term. Increased temperature and reduced rainfall could lead to scarcity of water resources and human consumption and watering livestock. This would in turn cause increased conflict among different groups of people in drought prone areas. Ultimately what is likely to work is a combination of individual responsible behavior towards the environment, Government good will and willingness of developed countries to reduce their emissions and improve trading terms relating to the Kyoto protocol. Ends
