Time to #PledgeLessPlastic for World Environment Day 2018.

The Society for the Environment is urging individuals and organisations to “pledge less plastic” for World Environment Day 2018.

Following the announcement by UN Environment that the theme for World Environment Day 2018 is “beat plastic pollution – if you can’t reuse it, refuse it”, the Society is asking you to play your part.

 “If we continue business as usual, by 2050 there could be more plastics than fish in the ocean (by weight).” – The Ellen MacArthur Foundation

World Environment Day (5^th June) is the UN’s most important day for encouraging worldwide awareness and action for the protection of our environment. The global theme and host for World Environment Day changes each year to highlight a range of environmental matters.

The Society champions the annual UN initiative, and this year, alongside a range of partners, they are encouraging individuals and organisations to share inspiring plastic reduction case studies and protect our environment by pledging to use less plastic. It is well documented that plastic waste is a huge problem globally and it needs to be addressed with positive action.

With the help of social media and websites, the Society will be spreading the word about plastic consumption, especially single-use plastic, using the hashtag #PledgeLessPlastic.

Vice Chair of the Society, Dougal Driver CEnv, said “Never has the environment been under so much pressure and so it is great to be part of the Society’s drive to reduce plastic pollution via a great mix of inspiring case studies and requests for pledges. This is an excellent opportunity to get involved and make a difference.” Dougal continued, “I look forward to highlighting some exciting examples at the SocEnv Awards and Lectures on World Environment Day.”

CEO of the Society, Dr Emma Wilcox, highlights the significance of World Environment Day to Chartered Environmentalists and Registered Environmental Technicians; “It’s an opportunity to come together to focus on the issues that really matter to environmental professionals and to celebrate the great work they do every day. The Society is proud to be associated with the day.”

Dougal Driver CEnv adds, “Of course the Society’s family are acting to improve the environment every day of the year, but World Environment Day gives us a focus around which we can get across powerful well evidenced ideas and engage the wider population in the local and global challenges we face.”

 To get involved and for ideas and inspiration, please download toolkits and resources from www.socenv.org.uk/PledgeLessPlastic and create a pledge to make a difference or inspire others with your good practice case study.

Example good practice case studies have been produced by supporting organisations including Siemens, Jacobs and Skanska. Take a read within the “Pledge Less Plastic” weblink above.

IEMA, a Society for the Environment Constituent Body, and their Corporate Members have been instrumental in developing these resources.