3rd March is World Wildlife Day, and was gazetted on 20th December, 2013, by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) after signing a Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 1973. It is usually celebrated on a theme, in order to recognize the intrinsic value of the diverse array of wild life and highlight the urgent need to combat the various threats facing them.
Educating the public about the critical role that wildlife plays in maintaining the ecological balance and supporting human lives is another primary objective of the world wildlife day. From pollination of plants that provide us with food, to the operation of the hydrological cycle that sustains all the eco system, all wildlife is indispensable for the functioning of the ecosystem, and merits retention.
“Connecting people and planet: exploring digital innovation in wildlife conservation” is the 2024 theme, and as Twentyeight tours, we urge everyone to explore ways to leverage digital technologies for conservation of wild life and to nurture human wildlife coexistence across all generations.
This may be executed by utilizing the internet, through using social media platforms to propagate conservation ideologies, researching and conducting analysis about conservation of ecosystems, sustainable use of resources and other ways of best connecting people and the planet. To the abler, digital innovations like satellite tracking, DNA barcoding and use of drones to monitor wildlife in their natural habitats.
