Dual Environment Days, Twice the Love for Our Planet

Growing up in Thailand, I always marveled at the abundance of "special days" in my country. These occasions weren't just national holidays; they also included days dedicated to raising awareness about various issues. During my middle school years, I recall participating in activities related to these special days. From submitting science projects for Thai Inventor Day (Feb 2) and National Science Day (Aug 18) to poetry writing contests for Thai Heritage Conservation Day (Apr 2) and Sunthorn Phu Day (Jun 26) – just to name a few.

As you can see, most of these special days were unique to Thailand. However, there was one particular day that stood out to me because it was celebrated twice a year: Environment Day. In our school, we observed both the national version (Dec 4) and the international version (Jun 5) of this day. I once wondered why we need to observe it twice. But as I grew older, I began to understand the significance. After all, reminding people about environmental issues twice a year is better than just once, right?

Both days are given equal importance across various sectors, and similar events and activities are organized to mark the occasion. One of the most popular activities is tree planting. Since the days are six months apart, they coincide with different seasons. World Environment Day occurs in late summer, whereas Thai Environment Day takes place right after the monsoon or flooding season. The timing was perfect for planting crops and cleaning up neighborhoods.

My grandmother, who has long been an advocate of planting before it was cool, has her tradition on these two Environment Days. She generously gives away plants and trees for free every year. With her remarkable green thumb, she plants anything and everything whenever she has the chance to do so. About 30 years ago, when she realized we didn't have enough space for new trees, she started distributing herbs and saplings instead. And thus, her tradition began.

As for me, I engage in a different activity to mark these days. Throughout the year, I collect e-waste and old calendars from my friends and community and make sure they're properly disposed of and used for a good cause. It's my way of contributing, even though I may not be able to live a 100% eco-friendly lifestyle as I need air conditioning to sleep and Bangkok's heat necessitates its use almost every night.

So, if you're eager to make a difference and don't want to wait until World Environment Day on June 5th, start on Thai Environment Day on December 4th instead. It's all about taking small steps and doing what you can, whenever you can. And who knows, maybe you'll develop your tradition, just like my grandmother did.