World Wildlife Day

World Wildlife Day, 2024
Background:
Forest and Livelihoods play a very vital role in sustaining both, people and the planet. Acknowledging the importance of wildlife for human existence and to fill the gap between people and nature, the world is observing this day.

Every year, on March 3, the World Community celebrates World Wildlife Day to raise awareness on protecting all wildlife and plants found in the world.

Theme 2024
The Secretariat of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has announced the theme of the United Nations World Wildlife Day 2024 (#WWD2024): “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation.”

As a way to highlight the central role of forests, forest species, and ecosystem services in sustaining the livelihoods of hundreds of millions of people globally, and particularly of Indigenous and local communities with historic ties to forested and forest-adjacent areas. This aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals 1, 12, 13, and 15, and their wide-ranging commitments to alleviating poverty, ensuring sustainable use of resources, and conserving life land. This day also advocates for different wildlife management models and practices that ensure the sustainability of both, humans and wildlife for the health of the planet.

The earth is commonplace for every creature and plant in the world, the protection, promotion, and presence of all creatures and plants is the responsibility of human beings.

Nepal also has a history of destruction and illegal killing of animals and plants due to the activities of theft hunters, importers, and smugglers. Since every creature has its importance and contribution to the ecosystem of the world environment, the protection of all beings is essential today. For the sustainability of human life, it is important to protect the wildlife and the plants.

The international trade of wild animals and plants was discussed at a conference in the early 1990s on behalf of the UN member by the state of Thailand. This discussion was called CITIES, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. According to CITIES, around 8 species of animals and 49 species of plants are in extinction due to international trade. These animals and plants should be safe and international trade is to be largely controlled.

Today is a day to remember the exciting contribution of CITIES to the control of those endangered species.

Let's acknowledge the presence of all wild animals and plants for the sustainability of human lives. Remembering and honoring all those who are working to preserve and uplift the development of wildlife and good wishes for the coming days.

-Suyog Dhakal