World Environment Day is celebrated every year on June 5 in more than 100 countries. The theme for 2009 is climate change and the broader consequences of environmental change, and what societies can do in response.

Combating climate change and preserving ecosystems that underpin our economies is an issue for everyone. Every individual’s effort, no matter how small, can contribute to the sustainable development of our economies and communities around the world.

On this day, individuals, non-governmental organizations, community and youth groups, business, industry and the media organize activities to renew their commitments to protect and develop the environment. They organize activities such as clean-up campaigns, tree planting, colorful street rallies, green concerts, essay and photo competitions in schools and recycling efforts.

The U.S. Embassy Montevideo is organizing a video contest for Uruguayan students of primary and secondary schools across the country. Contestants are invited to produce a short video on how to protect the environment and post their entries on the embassy's Facebook site where they will be judged by a panel of experts. (See press release, in Spanish.)

For more information on World Environment Day, please visit the United Nations Environment Programme and the UNESCO's World Heritage websites.

Conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall reminds us that reducing the demand for illegally trafficked goods will prevent the killing of endangered species

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