World Wildlife Day 2022: Dates, Theme, History, Significance

The term “Wildlife” includes the organisms that grow & live in the wild without human intervention. Earth is home to different kinds of species, and some of them are on the verge of getting extinct. The day's main goal is to conserve and protect these species from external threats. 

World Wildlife Conservation Day

Also Read: World Population Day 2022

World Wildlife Conservation Day 2022 - Date

World Wildlife Conservation Day is celebrated on December 4 every year to raise awareness of the multitude of benefits provided by wildlife to the environment. To maintain the balance of our ecosystem, it is important to pay attention to the critical issues affecting the well-being of flora & fauna. The day is an opportunity to celebrate a variety of beautiful forms of wild Fauna and Flora.

Why is World Wildlife Conservation Day Celebrated?

World Wildlife Conservation Day came into force due to the efforts made by the US secretary of state, Ms. Hillary Clinton, on 8th November 2012 at ‘The Wildlife Trafficking and Conservation’ event. Here, she quoted the White House’s strategy to address the global issue of wildlife trafficking. 

She stated, “Wildlife cannot be manufactured. And once it has vanished, it cannot be replenished. People who are gaining profits from these illegal activities are not just weakening our borders and our economies; they are also making the next generation deprived of these gems.” These efforts are reported to cost between $7 and 10 billion dollars a year. The US state department and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) are the main organisations behind the establishment of the day.

World Wildlife Conservation Day 2022 - Significance

Now we know that back on 8th November 2012, a call to put action was carried out by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to raise awareness on the protection of endangered species of flora & fauna. Apart from this, it should be noted that World Wildlife Conservation Day is one of the most important annual events dedicated to wildlife. 

As per the data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), around 8,400 species of wild fauna and flora are critically endangered, while around 30,000 are to be endangered or vulnerable. It is also believed that some species have already vanished. Based on these estimations, it is suggested that over a million species are on the edge of extinction. World Wildlife Conservation Day 2022 is celebrated to spread awareness about protecting these species. 

Both animals & plants have an intrinsic value to our ecological, economic, scientific, cultural, and other aspects of human well-being and sustainable development. World Wildlife Conservation Day is an opportunity to celebrate these beautiful forms of wildlife.

Wildlife Conservation Day 2022 Theme

The theme for World Wildlife Conservation Day 2022 is “Safeguarding key species for ecosystem restoration”. The idea behind this theme is to shed light on saving the critically endangered species of wild flora & fauna. This theme of the day is kept to get indulged in a discussion to implement solutions to conserve wildlife.

Several debates are held on this day which focuses on coming up with a solution to save these endangered species of animals & plants. These debates emphasise maintaining an ecosystem balance and restoring habitats to promote sustainable use by human beings.

How to Celebrate World Wildlife Conservation Day?

Many conservation groups, zoos and wildlife organisations host various events focused on saving endangered species and eliminating wildlife crimes. They organise educational seminars and exhibits. 

• Raise Awareness - This World Wildlife Conservation Day, December 4, spread the word of awareness among people and contribute towards the conservation and protection of endangered species such as rhinos and tigers on the official website. Educate people around you about the importance of wildlife conservation.

• Take a Pledge -  This global day allows everyone to learn more about wildlife conservation. Promise yourself this year to protect our planet’s most endangered species and act against illegal wildlife trafficking. 

• Contribute -You can also donate to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). All these donations you make go for the training and equipping wildlife protectors.

Why is The Need For World Wildlife Conservation?

World Wildlife Conservation Day is required as climate change, and several other factors have posed serious threats to wildlife, endangering various species. Not only this, every year, countless wildlife species are being killed, hunted or slaughtered for human agendas. Several animal products are traded illegally in different parts of the country, such as ivory, skin, horns, and nails, etc. Additionally, cutting forests and clearing lands causes habitat loss for animal species. 

Such continuous loss of wildlife is not dangerous for the species but also for human beings as we all somehow rely on wildlife and other resources. World Wildlife Conservation Day December 4, is an opportunity to raise awareness of the loss of wildlife species and its environmental impact. By celebrating the day, we can promote the conservation and protection of endangered species across the globe.

What is Wildlife Crime?

Wildlife crime simply includes the illegal acts of poaching and trading animals where the specific animal products are transported by the criminals into the black market to make profits. It is detrimental to the environment as it causes animals to become extinct or endangered. 

The most endangered species at risk of extinction include Elephants, Rhinos, Tigers, Sea Turtles, Lemurs and Gorillas.  This is where World Wildlife Conservation Day focuses on putting an end to wildlife crime.

Conclusion - How Can We Contribute?

This World Wildlife Conservation Day 2022, we can contribute towards saving wildlife by promoting awareness about endangered wildlife species and promoting conservation. Additionally, to support the restoration of their habitats and ecosystems, we can end illegal wildlife trading and a complete ban on products made from animals like their skin, nails etc. We can all contribute to saving wildlife by observing our duties. Wishing everyone a very Happy World Wildlife Conservation Day.