The United Nations World Wildlife Day (WWD) is observed annually on March 3 to celebrate and raise awareness about the world’s wild animals and plants. With over one million species at risk of extinction due to environmental challenges, the day emphasizes the importance of wildlife conservation and sustainable ecosystem management.
World Wildlife Day 2025
Theme: “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet”
Focus:
- Strengthening financial investments in conservation.
- Promoting sustainable resource management.
- Ensuring a resilient future that benefits both humanity and biodiversity.
The 2025 theme underscores the need for collaborative financial strategies to enhance wildlife conservation efforts and address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
Origin and Significance
Established By: United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in December 2013, based on a proposal by Thailand.
Historical Importance:
- Established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in December 2013 at its 68th session, based on a proposal by Thailand.
- The day commemorates the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) in 1973.
- The CITES Secretariat is designated as the facilitator for the global observance of World Wildlife Day.
- The UNGA Resolution designated the CITES Secretariat as the facilitator for the global observance of World Wildlife Day.
Purpose of World Wildlife Day:
- Encourage awareness about endangered species and their habitats.
- Promote sustainable practices to reduce threats like poaching, habitat destruction, and illegal wildlife trade.
- Advocate for global cooperation in conservation funding and policy-making.
Conservation Initiatives in India
Tamil Nadu Forest Department Initiatives:
- Slender Loris Conservation: India’s first sanctuary for slender lorises established.
- Dugong Protection: Conservation efforts for this marine mammal, often called the “sea cow.”
- Nilgiri Tahr Conservation: Focus on preserving this endemic mountain species.