THE road from Reliance to Anna Regina was bustling with activity on Sunday as scores of persons, including learners and teachers from primary and secondary schools across Region Two, participated in a walk to observe World Environment Day.

The walk, held under the theme, ‘Land restoration, desertification and drought resilience’, also saw participation from environmental clubs, the private sector, civil society, and trainee teachers and lecturers of the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE).

Mr. Surjpaul Singh, Head of the Investigations and Enforcement Department at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), delivered the keynote address at the Anna Regina Car Park, during which he emphasised the need for sustainable agricultural practices to promote better soil management, and a greener environment.

Singh expressed gratitude to the teachers and students for their participation, noting that the walk is a signature event for the EPA.

He took the opportunity to raise awareness about the day’s significance, and mentioned that this year’s theme seeks to highlight global issues such as land degradation and its impact on biodiversity and freshwater resources.

“This day serves to mobilise hundreds of people to take action to protect the planet, and we can all play our part,” Singh said.

Prizes were awarded for the best environmental chants, the largest contingent, the most uniformed group, and the best banner celebrating the theme.

World Environment Day, which was established by the United Nations, is celebrated on June 5 every year to raise awareness and encourage action for the protection of the environment.