Kathmandu – Today, March 3, the global community observes World Wildlife Day 2025 under the theme "Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation: Investing in People and the Planet." This day is a reminder of the urgent need to address the overexploitation of Earth's resources and to safeguard biodiversity, ecosystems, and the planet's ecological balance.
The United Nations General Assembly declared March 3 as World Wildlife Day in 2013, aiming to raise awareness about the risks faced by wildlife and plant species. The date marks the adoption of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 1973, a historic agreement aimed at regulating the trade of endangered species and ensuring their survival.
CITES, with 183 member countries, plays a crucial role in global wildlife conservation efforts. It works alongside various UN agencies and international organizations to implement conservation projects that address critical challenges. According to the United Nations, over one million species of wildlife and plants are at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, climate change, and illegal trade.
In 1973, during the 16th United Nations Climate Change Conference in Bangkok, Thailand, the idea of celebrating Wildlife Day was proposed and subsequently approved by the General Assembly. Since then, this day has served as a platform to mobilize global partnerships and investment in wildlife conservation.
The Call for Action in 2025
With escalating threats to wildlife, the focus of this year’s theme emphasizes collaboration and investment. Experts have pointed out that achieving significant progress in wildlife conservation requires substantial funding and international cooperation.
The CITES Secretariat has urged governments, organizations, and individuals to come together to protect endangered species and promote sustainable coexistence between humans and nature. Advocates stress that investments in wildlife conservation are also investments in climate resilience, food security, and sustainable livelihoods.
As Nepal celebrates World Wildlife Day, the country reflects on its own efforts in wildlife conservation, which include the successful protection of endangered species such as the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros. Nepal’s initiatives can serve as an inspiration for the global community to strengthen their resolve in conserving biodiversity.
World Wildlife Day 2025 is not just a commemoration but a call to action. It urges everyone to participate in building a future where wildlife thrives, ecosystems flourish, and humans live in harmony with nature.
Ecosphere News encourages its readers to take individual and collective steps to support wildlife conservation initiatives, fostering a sustainable and biodiverse planet for generations to come.
