WHEREAS, World Environment Day is an observance dedicated to encouraging awareness and action for the protection of the environment; and

WHEREAS, World Environment Day was established by the United Nations in 1972 to inspire individuals, communities, organizations, and governments to promote environmental stewardship and sustainable practices; and

WHEREAS, the natural resources of the Commonwealth, including its waterways, forests, farmland, wildlife, and parks, are vital to the health, economy, and quality of life of all Virginians; and

WHEREAS, protecting the environment through conservation, sustainability, and responsible resource management helps ensure a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient future for generations to come; and

WHEREAS, World Environment Day provides an opportunity to encourage environmental awareness and collective action to preserve and protect the natural beauty and resources of the Commonwealth of Virginia;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize June 5, 2026, as WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.