International Sun Day (also known as World Sun Day) is annually observed across the globe on 3rd May to raise awareness about the significant benefits of solar energy in fostering a greener and healthier planet and promoting eco-friendly energy.
- Sun Day was established to celebrate the potential of solar energy and raise public awareness of its possibilities.
Note: The Sun is the ultimate source of Solar energy, which is safe, non-polluting, and cost-effective, unlike fossil fuels.
Origin:
i.Sun Day was proposed by Denis Hayes, an American environmental advocate and proponent of solar power.
- Denis Hayes was known for coordinating the first Earth Day on April 22, 1970.
ii.In March 1978, the then United States (US) President Jimmy Carter proclaimed May 3 as “Sun Day” in response to a Congressional resolution.
Note: The proclamation sets the day aside for “appropriate activities and ceremonies demonstrating the potential of solar energy.”
International Event:
i.Although Sun Day originally began as a US observance, it is now celebrated in many countries worldwide.
ii.By 1994, Sun Day became an international event, and the European Section of the International Solar Energy Society (ISES) initiated the tradition, attracting the attention of around 22 countries.
Government of India hosts ‘Run for Sun’ Marathon in New Delhi
i.To commemorate International Sun Day 2024, The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India (GoI), organised a ‘Run for Sun’ Marathon at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, Delhi on 3rd May 2024.
ii.The Marathon featured 3 km and 5 km races, to raise awareness about solar power’s role in mitigating climate change and promoting a cleaner and healthier future.
iii.The Marathon aligned perfectly with the GoI’s vision to promote physical fitness and well-being,
Solar Stops: Educating Citizens
i.During International Sun Day, 6 cities across India hosted Solar Stops, interactive kiosks showcasing the importance of solar energy.
ii.These 12 captivating installations were set up at prominent malls in Delhi National Capital Region (NCR), Bengaluru (Karnataka), Vadodara (Gujarat), Guwahati (Assam), Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) and Chennai (Tamil Nadu).
iii.Served as focal points, Solar Stops highlighted the innovative and eco-friendly aspects of solar energy.
