As the globe celebrates the 38th World Environment Day today, Chinese citizens are joining in on efforts to reach a new deal at the crucial climate change convention meeting in Copenhagen, which is just 180 days away.

"The signature activity for 'seal the deal' will last until November, and will soon be joined by NBA star Yao Ming, UNEP's climate champion, and film actress Zhou Xun, whose popularity will help enhance the public awareness of the urgency of stopping global warming," said Wang.

China has already witnessed extreme climate phenomena, such as high temperature, heavy rain and snow, and severe drought. And it has become imperative for everyone to take action, said Wang.

Luo Hong, president of the Holiland bakery chain, who has been named one of the UNEP's five "climate heroes", has set a good example.

A photography lover and an environmentalist, he established the Luo Hong Environment Foundation in 2006, setting out to train and reward young talent involved in environment protection worldwide.

Last year, the foundation sponsored a painting competition for Chinese children on the theme of environmental protection. It attracted around 1.5 million participants.

"It's not only about painting. The competition encourages children to think more about the environment in their daily lives," said Wang.

Wang Zehao and Chen Jiedi, winners of the 2008 painting competition, said they had both changed their old "bad" habits to more environmentally friendly ones like saving energy and reducing waste after participating in the competition.

The UNEP called on people to take concrete action in this year's environment day theme -- 'your planet needs you, unite to combat climate change'. It is aiming to put together the efforts of individuals, governments, enterprises and relevant organizations.