For the first time in its 33-year history, World Environment Day celebrations are underway in the United States. Five days of planned events kicked off Thursday in San Francisco with a gathering of mayors from around the world.
SAN FRANCISCO — For the first time in its 33-year history, World Environment Day celebrations are underway in the United States. Five days of planned events kicked off Thursday in San Francisco with a gathering of mayors from around the world.
ENN’s Jerry Kay was on hand for Thursday's opening ceremonies, when San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom welcomed delegates and emphasized the opportunity at hand to identify problems, develop solutions, and document a shared commitment to bringing about change. Jerry recorded some clips from the opening ceremonies.
Eric Falt, Director of the UN Environment Programme’s Division of Communication and Public Information addressed the gathering, noting that in 2005, San Francisco was setting new standards for World Environment Day celebrations. Falt stressed the importance of transforming the planet back to what it was for the sake of future generations.
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This year’s World Environment Day theme is “Green Cities: Where the Future Lives,” focusing on innovative urban solutions to environmental problems. Topics to be featured during the five-day educational festival include transportation, energy, biodiversity, and smart growth.
Photo: San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom welcomes delegates from around the world to World Environment Day
