World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5 to encourage awareness and action for the protection of the environment. This year, the Leo representatives to the United Nations initiated the first international service activity involving Leo clubs from around the world participating simultaneously in World Environment Day.
Leo clubs were encouraged to plan and execute activities, such as tree planting, environmental cleanups, recycling initiatives and other creative environmental projects. Here is what we accomplished together, and how you can get inspired to join us.
Leos at an elementary school
Key Activities and Initiatives
- Tree Planting Initiatives
Leo clubs in Austria, Bangladesh, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Congo, Ghana, India, Italy, Kenya, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Türkiye, Uganda and Zimbabwe organized large-scale tree planting events. These activities not only helped increase green cover but also involved local communities, raising awareness about the importance of trees in combating climate change and supporting biodiversity. - Environmental Cleanups
Leo clubs in Malaysia, Congo, France, Ghana, India, Kenya, Liberia, Nepal, Nigeria, Sri Lanka and Uganda carried out environmental cleanups, such as collecting plastic waste and other debris from forests and beaches. These efforts aimed to protect habitats and promote cleaner, healthier ecosystems. - Recycling Programs
Leo clubs in Australia, Bangladesh, Ghana, Greece, Guatemala, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe initiated recycling drives, educating communities about the benefits of recycling and proper waste management. - Educational Campaigns
In Bangladesh, Brazil, China, Ghana, Honduras, India, Italy, Malaysia, Nepal, Philippines and Uganda, Leos conducted educational campaigns in schools and community centers, focusing on environmental issues.
Leos planting trees
Highlights of World Environment Day
So, what did we accomplish together?
- Leo clubs from 25 different countries across every continent came together, demonstrating a unified global commitment to environmental protection.
- One hundred and one different service activities were completed on World Environment Day, showcasing the creativity and dedication of Leo clubs worldwide.
- Leos in Nepal and Uganda stood out as the most active participants, each organizing an incredible 18 different service activities.
- The most popular service activity was the plantation drive.
- With this international service activity, Leos made a difference by contributing to all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including climate action, affordable and clean energy, sustainable cities and communities and life on land.
Having an international service activity for World Environment Day and the involvement of Leo clubs around the world exemplified the power of youth in driving positive environmental change. It shows that Leos are an important part of contributing to the SDGs along with our global causes. To learn more about the 17 SDGs and how your club can help achieve them, please visit this website.
Learn more about advocacy at Lions International and how you can get involved. Visit the Advocacy Toolkit to learn more.
İncisu Dönmez Alkan is a former Leo advisory panelist and president of the Istanbul Zeytinburnu Leo club. Originally from Istanbul, she is currently based in Berlin studying law.
