First World Environment Day (WED) was celebrated in which year ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The First World Environment Day (WED) was celebrated in the year 1974. This is the correct answer, and here is the detailed explanation supporting this:

1. **Explanation for Option 1 (1974):**
   - World Environment Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972 during the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment, which was the first major conference on international environmental issues. However, the first celebration of World Environment Day took place two years later, in 1974. This inaugural event set the stage for annual celebrations aimed at raising awareness and encouraging action for the protection of the environment. The theme for the first World Environment Day in 1974 was "Only One Earth," emphasizing the importance of preserving our planet.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**

- **Option 2 (1972):** Although the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment was held in 1972, which led to the establishment of World Environment Day, the actual celebration did not occur until 1974. Therefore, 1972 is not the correct year for the first celebration.

- **Option 3 (1971):** The year 1971 is incorrect because the concept of World Environment Day had not yet been established. The idea was proposed and formalized during the 1972 Stockholm Conference, making 1971 an impossible year for the first celebration.

- **Option 4 (1981):** By 1981, World Environment Day had already been celebrated several times since its inception in 1974. Therefore, 1981 is not the correct year for the first celebration.

In conclusion, the correct answer is Option 1 (1974), as it marks the year when the first World Environment Day was celebrated, following its establishment in 1972.