Wildlife plays a vital role in sustaining human life by providing essential ecological services. However, animal and plant species across the world continue to face severe threats due to uncontrolled human activities and illegal international trade. As a result, many species have already become extinct, while numerous others remain at risk.
To regulate international trade in endangered species, countries adopted the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) on March 3, 1973. During the 40th anniversary of CITES at the Conference of the Parties held in Bangkok in 2013, a proposal was made to establish a global day dedicated to wildlife awareness.
Subsequently, in December 2013, the United Nations General Assembly officially declared March 3 as World Wildlife Day. The first global celebration took place in 2014.
This year’s theme is “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.” The theme highlights the increasing threat faced by medicinal and aromatic species due to commercial exploitation and underscores the importance of their sustainable use.
