When we talk about environmental protection, we often focus on global warming, pollution, or wildlife conservation. But theres another layer we cannot afford to ignore: safetyfor people, for ecosystems, and for the future.

On this World Environment Day, as millions across the globe unite under the theme of sustainability, we  explore how safety is not a side topic, but a central pillar in environmental efforts.

Established by the United Nations in 1974, World Environment Day has become the largest global platform for environmental outreach. Each year, over 150 countries participate in events, clean-ups, campaigns, and policies aimed at preserving our planet.

But beyond planting trees or reducing plastic, theres a growing emphasis on building safe systems and sustainable solutions that protect both the environment and the people working to restore it.

In many industrieslike construction, manufacturing, agriculture, or logisticsenvironmental practices directly impact the safety of workers and surrounding communities.

During a field visit to a recycling plant in Al Quoz, Dubai, I noticed workers sorting hazardous e-waste without gloves or masks. The company had great intentions to support sustainabilitybut lacked basic safety protocols. Later that year, they invested in PPE and trained all staff on safe e-waste handling. The difference was night and day.

Unsafe environmental practices negate sustainability efforts. Its not truly green if it endangers lives.

Here are three ways safety and sustainability go hand-in-hand:

1. Green Infrastructure, Safe Infrastructure

Eco-friendly buildings are not just energy efficienttheyre designed with fire resistance, indoor air quality, and worker safety in mind. Safety audits should be part of every green certification process.

2. Renewable Energy Operations

Wind farms and solar power stations reduce carbon, yesbut workers face fall hazards, high-voltage equipment, and exposure to elements. Ongoing risk assessments and emergency planning are crucial.

3. Waste Management Systems

Sustainable waste disposal must be paired with hazard identification, proper PPE, and public safety education. For example, waste segregation at source isnt just eco-friendlyit prevents cross-contamination and reduces injury risk for sanitation workers. Organizations like OSHA, ILO, and the UNEP have created joint frameworks to integrate safety into environmental policies. ILOs "Green Jobs Programme" encourages countries to support jobs that are not only sustainable, but also decent and safe. In 2023, the UAE Green Agenda 2030 integrated worker health and safety into its environmental and economic policy reforms. Whether you're an individual, team leader, or company executive, here are ways to promote safety in your sustainability actions:

• Include HSE officers in all green initiatives or audits.
• Offer training on safe eco-practices (e.g., chemical handling, recycling, energy use).
• Conduct risk assessments for every sustainability projectbig or small.
• Share lessons learnedgood and badto improve safety awareness in the green sector.

Sustainability isn't just about saving treesits about creating a world where humans and nature thrive together, safely. On this World Environment Day, lets move beyond symbolic gestures and embrace holistic, safety-first environmental action. Because protecting the planet should never come at the cost of human well-being.