Omaha Hosts World Environment Day

Omaha was given its chance to “think globally but act locally” when it was chosen by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) as the host city for the North American celebrations of World Environment Day 2009 on June 5. Omaha was selected by the UN because of its commitment to environmental and sustainability issues in the community. The creation of the Green Omaha Coalition, former Mayor Mike Fahey’s signing of the U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement and taking the 25th spot in SustainLane’s 2008 U.S. Cities Sustainability Rankings led to the city's selection to host this highly recognized international event.

Thanks to volunteers such as Kate Cavanaugh and Mary Doherty, UN World Environment Day in Omaha was a success. Cavanaugh said World Environment Day raised an awareness amongst the community members that was only just beginning in Omaha.

The week began with a citizen’s roundtable sponsored by the Green Omaha Coalition. Panelists included Jim Suttle, the newly elected mayor of Omaha, city council members, representatives from various Omaha organizations and community members. Cavanaugh explained that, “this was a wonderful opportunity for the community members to bring their opinions to the table and discuss important environmental issues with a diverse group of people.”

Next on the agenda for the week was the Walk for the Environment, which took place along the Missouri River near the pedestrian bridge. Cavanaugh said, “this event was intended to be all inclusive…where community members who would not be inclined to attend the forum events would be excited to enjoy the beautiful Omaha day and at the same time become more educated about environmental issues.”

To kick off the walk, Omaha’s own “Environmental Celebrity” Ione Werthman, 82, spoke about the importance of educational programs and her dedicated work with Heron Haven at 120th and Maple.

The remaining events leading up to World Environment Day included a news conference at which the Nature Conservancy and the UNEP Regional Director for North America, Amy Fraenkel, presented a global report that encouraged investment in the storage and capture of carbon-based emissions. The Henry Doorly Zoo also hosted an event for young professionals. In addition, Omaha hosted a Pecha Kucha Night, at which sustainable and creative talent was shared amongst community members.

To conclude the week, the world premiere of HOME by Yann Arthus-Bertrand was released. Cavanaugh said, “This free screening occurred in over 100 countries, including at the base of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, New York’s Central Park and London’s Trafalgar Square.”

Participants explained that the film was “breathtaking” and “enjoyable to watch outside on a beautiful summer’s night in Omaha.”

Cavanaugh said what really made the week memorable was the “presence of a diverse group of community members attending each of the events.” In the future, Omaha hopes to host the event again to continue to raise awareness of climate change and make it possible for individuals within the community to make a difference.