Picture courtesy of UNEP
Dear Friends,
Greetings of peace and blessing from URI Africa.
Today it is World Environment Day, a day that has been observed throughout the world under the patronage of the United Nations Environment Programme.
Since 1973, the 5th of June has been dedicated to thinking and acting for our environment. The day has also become a time of reflection, taking pledges and practical, collaborative action by citizens of the world to safeguard Mother Nature to sustain our life on Earth.
This year, the slogan is “Raise your voice, not the sea level.” This slogan is adopted by the UNEP in order to recognize the alarming fate of small island nations across the world. Fifty-two small island nations have been identified by the United Nations as being threatened by the rising sea levels.
Here in Africa, countries like Cape Verde, Comoros, Mauritius, Guinea-Bissau, Sao Tome, Principe and Seychelles are the small Island Nations that are low-lying coastal countries demanding prompt care and attention.
It is with this in mind and to safe guard Mother Nature and to create more awareness on the role of religions for the protection of Mother Earth that URI Africa joins hands in partnership with the UNEP office in Africa, launching The Green Rule Initiative in 2012.
The Green Rule was selected from many of the world’s great religious texts and spiritual teachings to demonstrate that each religion and spiritual philosophy has a long-standing tradition of ecological stewardship that says, “Treat nature the way you want to be treated.”
On the occasion of the World Environment Day, URI Africa appeals to citizens of the world to uphold the protection of the environment and have respect, care and love for Mother Nature.
May Peace Prevail on Earth.
In peace and gratitude,
Mussie Hailu, URI Africa
