World Wildlife Day

• World Wildlife Day is celebrated every year on March 3.
• This day is celebrated to highlight the importance of conservation of wildlife and their natural habitats.
• Significance and Objectives:
  • To preserve biodiversity.
  • To raise awareness about the importance of wildlife and ecosystems.
  • To encourage efforts to prevent wildlife crimes and poaching.
  • To contribute to the fulfillment of Sustainable Development Goals.
• History:
  • The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared this day in 2013.
  • March 3 was chosen because on this day in 1973, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was adopted.

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES):

• It is an international agreement aimed at regulating the trade in endangered wildlife and flora and preventing their illegal trafficking.
• History of CITES:
  • Founded: 3 March 1973
  • Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
  • It is supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).