International Day of Biodiversity - 22 May 2024

Tags: Important Days

Every year on May 22, the International Day for Biodiversity is observed.

An Overview of the News

• The day aims to increase awareness about the crucial role of the natural world.

• It highlights the significance of biodiversity as a primary source of water, food, medicine, clothing, fuel, shelter, and energy for humans.

• The day also emphasizes the importance of protecting, respecting, and restoring our biological resources.

Theme for 2024: “Be Part of the Plan”:

• The theme emphasizes the need for a collective and coordinated approach to address and reverse biodiversity loss.

• It supports the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Foundation of Human Existence:

• Biodiversity, coined by Walter G. Rosen in 1985, refers to the incredible variety of living organisms on Earth.

• It is fundamental to human existence and well-being, encompassing all life forms.

Threats to Biodiversity:

• In recent decades, biodiversity has faced numerous threats, including habitat loss, overexploitation of natural resources, pollution, invasive species, and climate change.

• These threats are driven by human activities, leading to species extinction and ecosystem degradation worldwide.

Establishment of International Day for Biological Diversity:

• The United Nations established the International Day for Biological Diversity to address the pressing issue of biodiversity loss and raise awareness about its importance.

• Originally observed on December 29th, it was shifted to May 22nd in 2000 to commemorate the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992.

• It aims to champion the preservation and sustainable utilization of the diverse array of life on Earth.

Role of the Celebration:

• The annual celebration serves as a platform to highlight the critical role of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystems' delicate equilibrium.

• By emphasizing the importance of united conservation efforts, it motivates individuals, communities, and nations to protect the rich tapestry of life sustaining our planet.