The United Nations General Assembly in 1972 set the day to mark the opening of the Stockholm Conference on Human Environment. Another resolution, adopted by the General Assembly the same day, led to the creation of The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

UNEP selected the slogan 'Don't Desert Dry lands!' this year in the light of the theme of 'Deserts and Desertification.' The slogan emphasises the importance of protecting the dry lands, which cover more than 40 percent of the planet's surface. This ecosystem is home to one-third of the world's people who are more vulnerable members of the society.

The main international celebration of the World Environment Day 2006 will be held in Algeria.

The day's agenda is to give a human face to environmental issues; empower people to become active agents of sustainable and equitable development; promote an understanding that communities are pivotal to changing attitudes towards environmental issues; and advocate partnership that will ensure all nations and peoples to enjoy a safer and more prosperous future.

Following the global trend, Bangladesh will also observe the day. The ministry of environment will organise a rally led by Environment and forest Minister Tariqul Islam from the Osmani Memorial auditorium at 8:00am tomorrow.

Besides, different organisations also announced a number of programmes to mark the day in a befitting manner.

Angikar Bangladesh Foundation, a voluntary organisation for human rights and good governance agenda, has organised a rally in front of the High Court on the day protesting an Indian bid to construct the Tipai Dam at Monipur in India. Experts apprehend that the dam will cause desertification in a huge area in the eastern region of Bangladesh as the rivers Surma, Kushiara and Meghna may turn into simply dried basins.

Sources said the programmes will be taken in Sylhet, Sunamganj, Mymensingh and Chandpur.