World Wildlife Day 2025
World Wildlife Day 2025: Celebrating Biodiversity and Conservation
Observed annually on March 3, World Wildlife Day raises global awareness of the world’s wild flora and fauna. Established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2013, the day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 1973. World Wildlife Day celebrates the intrinsic value of wildlife and its critical contributions to biodiversity, ecosystem health, and human well-being.
Origins and Global Significance
World Wildlife Day was proclaimed by UNGA following a proposal from Thailand to acknowledge the importance of conserving wildlife. This day highlights the essential ecological, economic, and cultural roles of wildlife, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices to protect species at risk. CITES, which oversees international trade to prevent species endangerment, actively participates in coordinating events and raising awareness for this observance.
Annual Themes and Key Messages
Each year, World Wildlife Day adopts a specific theme to focus attention on urgent wildlife conservation issues. The 2025 theme emphasizes protecting endangered species and their habitats, promoting biodiversity, and supporting international efforts to prevent illegal wildlife trade. These themes aim to inspire individuals, communities, and organizations to actively engage in preserving wildlife and habitats.
Connection to Sustainable Development Goals
World Wildlife Day aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
SDG 15: Life on Land – Protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and halting biodiversity loss.
SDG 14: Life Below Water – Contributing to the conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems and reducing the impacts of illegal trade on ocean biodiversity.
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Encouraging sustainable consumption patterns that reduce demand for products linked to wildlife trafficking.
Engaging in Conservation Efforts
With biodiversity under threat from climate change, habitat loss, and illegal trade, World Wildlife Day 2025 calls on people globally to take action for conservation. From supporting local wildlife protection initiatives to advocating for responsible trade policies, individuals and communities can make a difference in safeguarding ecosystems and species.
Join the Global Movement
On March 3, 2025, take part in World Wildlife Day by learning about conservation challenges, supporting wildlife-friendly practices, and spreading awareness. Together, we can work towards a future where wild fauna and flora are protected, ensuring biodiversity and a balanced environment for generations to come.
World Wildlife Day Themes
| Year | Theme | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | It’s Time to Get Serious About Wildlife Crime | Focused on raising awareness and taking action against wildlife trafficking and illegal trade. |
| 2016 | The Future of Wildlife is in Our Hands | Emphasized individual responsibility in wildlife conservation, with a sub-theme focused on elephants. |
| 2017 | Listen to the Young Voices | Encouraged youth involvement in wildlife conservation efforts and environmental stewardship. |
| 2018 | Big Cats - Predators Under Threat | Raised awareness about the threats facing big cats and the need to protect these vital predators. |
| 2019 | Life Below Water: For People and Planet | Highlighted the importance of marine life conservation for a sustainable planet. |
| 2020 | Sustaining All Life on Earth | Celebrated biodiversity and called for the preservation of all life forms on the planet. |
| 2021 | Forests and Livelihoods: Sustaining People and Planet | Focused on the essential role of forests in supporting both people’s livelihoods and biodiversity. |
| 2022 | Recovering Key Species for Ecosystem Restoration | Promoted efforts to restore ecosystems by recovering endangered and critical species. |
| 2023 | Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation | Highlighted the importance of collaboration across governments, civil society, and the private sector to protect wildlife. |
| 2024 | Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation | Recognized the impact of digital technology on wildlife conservation and human-wildlife coexistence. |
