World Environment Day 2015 kicks off

World Environment Day is observed every year on 5 June and is run by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to raise awareness of environmental issues and catalyse action on climate change.

The theme of World Environment Day 2015 is 'Seven Billion Dreams. One Planet. Consume with Care.’

The theme urges people to evaluate consumption habits including shopping, eating and travelling.

In a statement, UNEP said: “By 2050, if current consumption and production patterns remain the same and with a rising population expected to reach 9.6 billion, we will need three planets to sustain our way of life. Living well within planetary boundaries is the most promising strategy for ensuring a healthy future.”

Each year, UNEP runs several campaigns and initiatives to promote the World Environment Day theme with environmental organisations, schools and groups across the globe running events leading up to and taking place on June 5.

Italy will serve as the host of the WED 2015 and the celebrations will take place at the Milan Expo.

Italian Minister for the Environment Gian Luca Galletti said: "It is an honour for Italy to work together with UNEP in leading the global celebrations for World Environment Day 2015. This year, WED will focus on the need to respect the carrying capacity of the planet and to manage natural resources efficiently—all aspects that are of utmost importance if we really want to ensure prosperity and wellbeing globally."

Last year, World Environment Day was hosted in Barbados and focused on small island developing nations, which are already seeing the direct effects of climate change and sea level rise.

In 2013, World Environment Day took on the issue of food waste, which not only contributes to global hunger but is also a heavy burden on natural resources.

Today, you’re invited to vote for your favourite World Environment Day slogan by visiting UNEP.org/wed/ and sharing your choice on social media.

The most-shared slogan will become the official motto for the events. Voting ends on March 26.

Register you World Environment Day activity HERE and share you #7BillionDreams HERE