World Wildlife Day
March 3rd marks World Wildlife Day, a global rallying cry for the protection of our planet’s incredible biodiversity. While the threats facing wildlife – habitat loss, climate change, illegal trade – are daunting, this day also spotlights the crucial role played by international organisations like the United Nations and UNESCO in safeguarding these irreplaceable treasures.
The Looming Crisis
The harsh truth is that one million species face extinction, according to the 2022 Global Biodiversity Outlook.This is more than just a number; it represents a planet on the verge of ecological disaster. From majestic elephants killed for ivory to delicate reefs bleached by rising oceans, the consequences of inactivity are catastrophic.
The UN- A Force for Change
The United Nations stands firm against this trend, leading the resistance with numerous actions.The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) forms the backbone of this effort, regulating trade in over 38,000 species. With 183 member states, CITES acts as a global watchdog, suppressing the multi-billion dollar illegal wildlife trade that fuels species decline.
Furthermore, the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) serve as a roadmap for a sustainable future.SDG 15, “Life on Land,” specifically aims to end biodiversity loss, an objective that is now recognized as needing revision but demonstrates the UN’s steadfast dedication.
UNESCO: Protecting Natural Jewels
UNESCO, the champion of education and cultural heritage, displays a powerful tool in the form of the World Heritage Convention. This convention recognizes and protects outstanding natural and cultural sites, many of which are crucial havens for endangered species. Over 250 natural World Heritage Sites, from the tiger-prowled Sundarbans in India to the coral havens of the Great Barrier Reef, stand as testaments to this commitment.
Beyond site protection, UNESCO fosters education and awareness through initiatives like the Man and the Biosphere Programme and the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. By working with local communities and stakeholders, they encourage sustainable solutions, empowering individuals to become protectors of their natural heritage.
World Wildlife Day 2024: Connecting Through Innovation
The theme for 2024, “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation,” emphasises the power of collaboration and technology. Citizen science apps that track animal movements, AI-powered tools that monitor illegal activity – these are just a glimpse into the innovative solutions emerging. But true success requires global cooperation and support.
From Awareness to Action
World Wildlife Day isn’t just a day of celebration; it’s a call to action.1 in 4 mammal species are threatened with extinction. By supporting the efforts of the UN and UNESCO, participating in conservation initiatives, and making conscious choices, we can rewrite the narrative. From the choices we make as consumers to the voices we raise for change, each action, however small, contributes to a future where nature thrives alongside humanity.
UNESCO BMW’s Involvement
The UNESCO Body and Mind Wellness Club empowers individuals by offering job training and professional development workshops and creates global engagement opportunities for them. In addition, the UNESCO BMW program focuses on physical and mental wellness, ecology, and community activism with the aim to bring a positive change in society.
UNESCO BMW’s Vision
Our vision mission encompasses three main goals that are also in line with this occasion today and engage people of all ages, especially the youth improvement of the inner ecosystem, enhancement of inner creativity through arts and crafts, and, lastly, encouragement of inner peace globally.
By Nayab Zareen
References:
Global Biodiversity Outlook (GBO) (cbd.int)
Species List | Endangered, Vulnerable, and Threatened Animals | WWF (worldwildlife.org)
THE 17 GOALS | Sustainable Development (un.org)
UNESCO World Heritage Centre – The World Heritage Convention
Tigers in the Sundarbans (nationalgeographic.org)
Great Barrier Reef – UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) | UNESCO
How can we use AI to combat wildlife crime? (ifaw.org)
Almost one in four mammal species threatened with extinction (europa.eu)
Our Programs | Inner Peace and Self Awareness | UNESCO BMW
Our mission | UNESCO Body & Mind Wellness Club (unescobmw.org)