The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Libya was pleased to celebrate World Environment Day 2008, on 5th June, in the picturesque setting of Sinbad Beach in Tripoli. The event, held in tandem with an abundance of similar events organized by United Nations around the world, sought to raise awareness of climate change and to campaign for greater action to combat the grave threat posed by global warming.    This year’s theme was “CO2- Kick the Habit” and UNDP Libya, in association with the Scouts Movement and Environment General Authority (EGA),  held a short press conference, followed by a beach cleaning initiative and a family day, filled with competitions and quizzes, to mark the event.

Despite the glorious weather and beautiful seafront, the UN Resident Representative, Brian Gleeson, had a chilling message to deliver. In his opening speech he warned that “we are now living in a world not far from the brink of disaster. Global warming is a proven fact. It is a fact with potentially horrendous consequences.”  UNDP Libya is deeply aware that the Great Libyan Arab Jamahiriya faces a dual threat if global warming is allowed to continue at its present pace.  Libya’s coastal cities are at risk of flooding if sea levels rise, whilst further inland will be subjected to desertification as temperatures increase.

The Global Environment Day also focused on the opportunities for preventing these devastating consequences. Above all, it emphasized that preventing climate changes is everyone’s responsibility. It is not enough for government alone to ‘kick the carbon habit,’ individuals must be willing to make minor lifestyle changes to reduce their carbon emissions too.  It was a theme echoed by the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon, in his speech to commemorate the day.  He stressed that “we are all part of the solution. Whether you are an individual, an organization, a business or a government, there are many steps you can take to reduce your carbon footprint. It is a message we must all take to heart.”

Indeed, the popular involvement in the event was an encouraging sign.  Libyana sent out text messages to all its customers to remind them of Environment Day. The attendees took to the Scout-led task of beach cleaning with gusto, carrying litter bags and wearing specially designed caps and t-shirts provided by EGA and UNDP.  The beach was crowded with children of all ages, scrambling to take part, and the event also saw a high turnout from private companies, as well as a visit from the Greek Minister of Health.

Brian Gleeson reflected on Libya’s achievements in the field of climate change so far.  The Great Libyan Arab Jamahiriya has already signed and ratified international agreements on biodiversity, desertification, hazardous wastes, ozone layer protection, and ship pollution, as well as the Kyoto protocol. Nevertheless, he warned that “the greatest danger is believing that what we have done is enough.” UNDP Libya used the event to pledge its commitment to working with its national and international counterparts to reduce carbon emissions and secure a brighter future for Libya.

The litter collecting and family day provided for an enjoyable day out and UNDP Libya expressed their gratitude for the enthusiasm of the many volunteers who turned up. The underlying message of the day, however, was serious. The World Environment Day provided UNDP Libya with an important opportunity to raise awareness for climate change and to renew its commitment to dealing with this most grave danger facing the Jamahiriya.