Uniting for a Greener Tomorrow: Global Voices Converge at IIC on World Environment Day & IIEE's 46th Foundation Day to Beat Plastic Pollution

Indian International Centre, New Delhi | June 5, 2025

Anupam Kumari

In observance of World Environment Day 2025 and the 46th Foundation Day of the Indian Institute of Ecology and Environment (IIEE), an International Conference was held at the prestigious India International Centre (IIC), New Delhi, on June 5, 2025. World Environment Day Celebration was organized jointly with Confederation of Indian Universities, Indian Institute of Ecology and Environment (IIEE), and GPF India on 5th June on the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution”. The event brought together a distinguished assembly of global and national thought leaders, policymakers, educators, and students, all united by a shared commitment to environmental sustainability.

Chief guest Hon’ble Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, Governor of Telangana, launching the book "Narendra Modi: Seva, Sankalp aur Siddhi" on World Environment Day, 2025 at IIC, New Delhi.

The conference was graced by the presence of Hon’ble Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, Governor of Telangana, who served as the Chief Guest. His address emphasised the urgent need for integrated governance, community action, and behavioural change to combat the mounting plastic crisis, aligned with this year’s World Environment Day theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution.”

Hon’ble Sardar M. S. Sirsa, Minister for Environment, Industries, Food and Supplies, Government of Delhi, unveiled the book "Narendra Modi: Seva, Sankalp aur Siddhi" during the World Environment Day 2025 celebrations at IIC, New Delhi.

Prominent dignitaries included Hon’ble Sardar M. S. Sirsa, Minister of Environment, Industries, Food and Supplies, Government of Delhi; H.E. Mr. Alberto A. Guani, Ambassador of Uruguay to India; Mr. Dennis Christian Larsen, Chief of Social Behaviour Change, UNICEF; Director of United Nations Information Centre, Mr. Darrin Farrant, MAASterG, a renowned spiritual and motivational speaker; and Rev. Father Anthony Raj Thumma, known for his active involvement in interfaith environmental dialogue. Each brought a unique perspective to the global issue of plastic pollution, stressing the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration, education, and policy enforcement.

The conference featured thought-provoking speeches, expert panel discussions, and insightful recommendations. Participants unanimously adopted The New Delhi Declaration, a set of actionable resolutions aimed at reducing plastic dependency, encouraging innovation in biodegradable alternatives, promoting civic responsibility, and integrating environmental education into mainstream curricula.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to outstanding intellectuals, school principals, teachers, and students who have demonstrated excellence and commitment in the fields of ecology, education, and environmental action. These recognitions aimed to encourage grassroots-level contributions and reinforce the role of academic institutions in shaping a sustainable future.

As a day of both reflection and resolve, the International Conference at IIC reinforced the collective responsibility to heal the planet and chart a path toward ecological resilience. It was not only a celebration of progress but also a powerful call to action, reminding all present that environmental protection is not a one-day effort but a lifelong mission.