Happy Belated World Environment Day!

We're embarrassed to admit that we've been too wrapped up in the typical day-to-day ridiculousness that goes on in Washington to remember to celebrate the UNEP-designated World Environment Day last week.

In our defense, the main event was celebrated in New Zealand, a country that no media outlet typically covers...which may explain why President Bush never even mentioned the holiday. But, being deadbeats allows us to reflect upon how the day was spent.

This year's theme, "Kick the Habit! Towards a Low Carbon Economy" sounded more like a "Quit Smoking" than a "Quit Your SUVs" campaign. UNEP helpfully provided 80 inane and unhelpful ways to celebrate the world's environment, presented in as little detail as possible, but thankfully in alphabetical order for our convenience. Examples provided included:

• Vermicomposting
• Xpect environmental responsibility
• Never litter
• Hoist banners at major road intersections
  
• Know your rights

Governments and even the private sector engaged their citizens/employees as well:

• In the Democratic Republic of Congo, diamond giant DeBeers provided a presentation to its workers of their "environmental vision" then quizzed them to make sure they paid attention for fabulous prizes.
• In Ecuador, a resort challenged its patrons to identify as many different local bird species as possible (because why should locals have the opportunity to learn about their bird neighbors). According to the resort "Even though the bird experience is already a priceless gift" the winners still got a prize!

To check out even more inspirational methods of increasing environmental awareness, check out the full list of the day's activities here.