Date: Monday, 18 March 2024; 6th Anniversary.
Coordinator: Global Recycling Foundation
Objectives:
Global Recycling Day is annually observed for the following purposes:
- To recognize the importance that recycling plays in preserving our natural resources and securing the future of our planet.
- To highlight the need not to waste natural resources and the importance of sustainable development.
- To encourage people to reduce waste, recycle materials, and reuse products.
Inception:
The first Global Recycling Day was officially held on 18 March 2018
History:
The proposal for Global Recycling Day was first announced by the president of the Bureau of International Recycling – a global recycling industry association – at the 2015 World Recycling Convention.
The date selected for the launch of Global Recycling Day on 18 March 2018 was symbolic, marking the 70th birthday of the Bureau of International Recycling.
The Global Recycling Foundation, in collaboration with the United Nations, is responsible for coordinating this program.
Why Do We Mark Global Recycling Day:
Human beings consume an astounding number of natural resources every year, yielding billions of tons of solid waste. It is undoubtful that natural resources will run out at some point in the not-too-distant future. Recycling is a key part of the circular economy, helping to protect our natural resources.
According to the Global Recycling Foundation, the people of Planet Earth produce 2.1 billion metric tons of solid waste every year. Some 46% of the trash is recyclable. However, only 16% of that is recycled each year, saving 700 million metric tons of CO2 emissions from entering the atmosphere.
Globally, we are now facing a climate emergency. Suppose we don’t make significant and rapid changes. In that case, we will see continued rising global temperatures, resulting in environmental and humanitarian crises, such as increased poverty, immigration from displaced communities, job losses, waste mountains, and disappearing natural habitats. Recycling is on the front line in the war to save our planet’s and humanity’s future.
How To Observe Global Recycling Day
Learn, share, and action!
On this Day, organizations, corporations, and communities are encouraged to host various events, including seminars, lectures, conferences, educational programs, and social media campaigns, to raise and spread awareness of the importance of recycling. All are welcome to join local, national, and regional recycling events. Each year, the Day is observed with a particular theme identified and proposed by the Global Recycling Foundation to recognize the importance of recycling and promote innovative actions.
Annual Theme In Recent Years:
2024 theme: “Recognising Youth”
2023 theme: “Creative Innovation”
2022 theme: “Recycling Fraternity”
2021 theme: “Recycling Heroes”.
Official Websites:
https://www.globalrecyclingday.com/
https://www.globalrecyclingfoundation.org
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