The International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated annually on May 22nd. This day aims to raise awareness and increase understanding about the importance of biodiversity for the health and well-being of our planet.
It also highlights the need to protect and conserve our natural resources and the various species that inhabit our world. The theme for this year’s celebration is “We’re part of the solution #ForNature.”
International Day for Biological Diversity History
The International Day for Biological Diversity was first established by the United Nations in 1993 to increase awareness of biodiversity issues worldwide. The date of May 22nd was chosen to commemorate the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity, which was signed by 150 government leaders at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. Since then, the day has been celebrated annually to promote the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, as well as to raise awareness about the threats to biodiversity such as habitat loss, climate change, and pollution.
Themes for International Day for Biological Diversity
- 2000: dedicated to forest biodiversity.
- 2003: biodiversity and poverty alleviation – challenges for sustainable development.
- 2004: biodiversity: food, water and health for all.
- 2005: biodiversity: Life insurance for our changing world.
- 2006: protect biodiversity in drylands.
- 2007: biodiversity and climate change.
- 2008: biodiversity and agriculture.
- 2009: invasive alien species.
- 2010: biodiversity, development and poverty reduction.
- 2011: forest biodiversity.
- 2012: marine biodiversity.
- 2013: water and biodiversity.
- 2014: Island Biodiversity.
- 2015: convention on biological diversity.
- 2016: mainstreaming biodiversity; sustaining people and their livelihoods.
- 2017: biodiversity and sustainable Tourism.
- 2018: celebrating 25 years of action for biodiversity.
- 2019: our biodiversity, our food, our health.
- 2020: our solutions are in nature.
- 2021: we’re of the solution.
- 2022: building a shared future for all life.
- 2023: from agreement to action: build back biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Day for Biological Diversity?
It is an annual event celebrated on May 22nd to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the need to protect and conserve our natural resources.
When was the International Day for Biological Diversity first established?
It was first established by the United Nations in 1993 to increase awareness of biodiversity issues worldwide.
Why is biodiversity important?
Biodiversity is important for the health and well-being of our planet. It provides essential ecosystem services, such as air and water purification, nutrient cycling, and pollination, that are critical for human survival.
What is the theme for this year’s International Day for Biological Diversity?
The theme for this year’s International Day for Biological Diversity is “We’re part of the solution #ForNature.”
What are some of the threats to biodiversity?
Some of the threats to biodiversity include habitat loss, climate change, pollution, overexploitation of natural resources, and the introduction of invasive species.
What can we do to protect biodiversity?
We can protect biodiversity by reducing our ecological footprint, supporting conservation efforts, promoting sustainable practices, and advocating for policies that protect natural resources and wildlife.
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