World Environment Day: Only One Earth

On June 5th, the world observed World Environment Day under the theme: Only One Earth, with a focus on “Living Sustainably in Harmony With Nature.” This global campaign observes and promotes the choices that people can take to create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable planet.

“Only One Earth” was the same motto highlighted at the first UN Conference on Human Environment, the 1972 Stockholm Conference, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this month. This motto continues to be pertinent today as Earth is our one and only home, and humanity must mobilize to protect it.

As we celebrate World Environment Day and reflect on the 50 years since Stockholm, we pay tribute to Maurice Strong, a diplomat who served as Secretary-General of both the 1972 Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment and the Rio Earth Summit in 1992. Strong is remembered for putting the environment on the international agenda and worked tirelessly throughout his life to move sustainable development forward.

“This is not just a technical issue. Everybody’s actions are motivated by their inner life, their moral, spiritual and ethical values. Global agreements will be effective when they are rooted in the individual commitment of people, which arises from their own inner life.” — Maurice Strong

This quote beautifully describes the inner dimension needed for humanity to live in harmony with nature and reverse the damage we have inflicted. Natural Agriculture is one of the key ways to grow food sustainably as it focuses on limited intervention and is based in respect for nature. In celebration of World Environment Day, we encourage you to learn more about Natural Agriculture.

Change is possible, if we drive meaningful action towards a healthy planet for the well-being of all.