A Call to Action Against Plastic Pollution
World Environment Day, celebrated every June 5th since 1973 under the auspices of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is the largest global platform for environmental awareness.
This year’s theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” highlights a global environmental crisis. More than 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced each year, half of which is designed for single use. Less than 10% of this waste is recycled, while approximately 11 million tonnes enter aquatic ecosystems annually. This pollution seriously affects over 800 marine species and results in social and environmental costs estimated between $300 and $600 billion USD per year.
Microplastics, particles smaller than 5 mm, contaminate our food, water, and air. It is estimated that each individual ingests over 50,000 plastic particles per year, not including those inhaled.
In 2025, this global event is hosted for the second time by the Republic of Korea, specifically in the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, which has committed to eliminating plastic pollution by 2040.
This day also serves as a prelude to a crucial moment: within two months, world leaders will resume international negotiations toward a legally binding global treaty on plastic pollution.
