Many people forget that charity not only includes helping and giving to people, but it encompasses the environment as well. Last week, June 5th, was World Environment Day (WED). On WED the United Nations encourages worldwide awareness and action for the environment. Over time it has become a global event celebrated in over 100 countries. On this day people are encouraged to do something positive for the environment.

Orchestrated by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), this years celebration of World Environment Day (WED) coincides with the International Year of Small Island Developing States. The International Year of Small Island Developing States was created by the U.N. General Assembly in order to create awareness to the issues facing the world’s islands.

World Environment Day is also known as Eco Day and was established in 1972 by the U. N. General Assembly. This year marks the 42nd edition I with the first Eco day being commemorated in 1973.

Each year the event has a theme and slogan. This year the theme is: Small Islands and Climate Change. The official slogan for the theme states: “Raise Your Voice Not The Sea Level.”

This event highlights the existence of the awareness of the importance of charitable causes. While the global community might have varying beliefs regarding which issues are important, it is clear that these events are merely the tip of the iceberg.

If everyday people treated the cause of their choice as if it was “World ______ Day” then many causes would be fulfilled. Everyday there are charities, causes, projects seeking to help people, animals and the environment.

Having special days like this are important to spread awareness but you can take action and make a charitable contribution to the environment any day of the week. Visit Mycharitymap.org and discover how you can leave your mark on the map.