Observance Days Calendar
Don't miss the important environmental days..
In case you did, we're here to remind you đź’š
3 April
World Aquatic Animal Day
A day to raise awareness about the critical roles these animals play in our ecosystems and the threats they face from human activities. The theme for World Aquatic Animal Day in 2024 is “Animals as Community”
7 April
World Health Day
The day mark the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO). The theme for World Health Day 2024 is "My Health, My Right". This theme underscores the fundamental human right to access quality healthcare services, education, and information.
7 April
International Beaver Day
International Beaver Day is celebrated to recognize the importance of beavers and their role in maintaining ecosystems. Beavers are known as ecosystem engineers because their dam-building activities can create wetlands, which are beneficial for other species and help in water conservation.
16 April
Save the Elephant Day
Save the Elephant Day is a day to celebrate and protect elephants and their habitats. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the dangers elephants face, such as poaching, habitat loss, human-elephant conflict, and climate change. The day also encourages people to support organizations that work to save elephants from extinction, such as Save the Elephants.
17 April
International Bat Appreciation Day
A day to celebrate and protect bats and their habitats. Bats are critical to our ecosystem. Thanks to them, they get rid of many harmful or problematic insects, including mosquitoes. Apart from being the natural pest controllers, bats also pollinate flowers and their faeces are rich fertilisers.
22 April
Earth Day
The theme for Earth Day in 2024 is “Planet vs. Plastics”. This theme focuses on the urgent need to address plastic pollution and its detrimental effects on human and planetary health. It calls for a significant reduction in plastic production and use, aiming for a 60% reduction by 2040, and ultimately striving for a plastic-free future.
25 April
World Penguin Day
A day to celebrate and learn about one of the most adorable and unique animal species in the world. It is observed on April 25 every year, which coincides with the annual migration of Adelie penguins in Antarctica. It aims to raise awareness about the threats that penguins face, such as climate change, overfishing, pollution, and habitat loss.
27 April
World Tapir Day
The day aims to educate people about these large herbivorous mammals that are often overlooked and misunderstood. Tapirs are important for the ecosystem as seed dispersers and indicators of forest health. However, they are threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and human encroachment and all tapir species are endangered or vulnerable.
28 April
Save the Frogs Day
A day to celebrate and raise awareness about the diverse and fascinating amphibians that inhabit our planet. The day aims to educate people about the threats that frogs face, such as habitat loss, pollution, disease, invasive species, and climate change.
Last Saturday of April
World Veterinary Day
The day aims to raise awareness of the important role that veterinarians play in the health and welfare of animals, people, and the environment. Veterinarians not only treat sick and injured animals, but also prevent diseases, ensure food safety and quality, protect wildlife and biodiversity, and contribute to scientific research and innovation. The theme for 2023 is "Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusiveness in the veterinary profession"
2 May
World Tuna Day
A day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of tuna conservation, promote sustainable fishing practices, and encourage collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the future of tuna populations. When shopping look for the MSC blue fish tick label when shopping for tuna products, which indicates that they come from fisheries that meet the highest standards of sustainability and traceability. There are seven species of tuna, and they are found in all the major oceans of the world, except for the polar regions.
12 May
International Day of Plant Health
The theme for this year is Plant Health for Environmental Protection. Using natural pesticides or other environmentally friendly methods prevents or controls plant pests and diseases, rather than relying on chemicals that can harm plants, soil, water, and biodiversity. Protecting plant health is a shared responsibility that requires cooperation and coordination among different actors, such as farmers, gardeners, researchers, policymakers, traders, consumers, and international organizations.
13 May
World Migratory Bird Day
This year’s theme is "Water: Sustaining Bird Life". The vast majority of migratory birds rely on aquatic ecosystems during their life cycles. Inland and coastal wetlands, rivers, lakes, streams, marshes, and ponds are all vital for feeding, drinking, or nesting, and also as places to rest and refuel during their long journeys. Unfortunately, aquatic ecosystems are becoming increasingly threatened around the world and so are the migratory birds that depend on them.
20 May
World Bee Day
Bees are essential pollinators for many crops, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. Without bees, many crops would have lower yields and quality, or even fail to produce at all. We can all help by supporting organic and sustainable farming practices, planting bee-friendly plants in our gardens and balconies, avoiding or minimizing pesticide use, and providing water and shelter for bees.
22 May
International Day for Biological Diversity
The theme for 2023 is “From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity” which builds on the results of the 15th Conference of Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity(COP-15) where the Kunming - Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework was adopted. This global framework plans to conserve and restore nature by 2030 and beyond. The theme also emphasizes the need to shift from agreement to action and implement the framework in order to build back biodiversity after the pandemic and other threats.
23 May
World Turtle Day
The theme for 2023 is “I Love Turtles!” which asks everyone to embrace their inner turtle and show their appreciation of these fantastic creatures. The day educates people about the threats that turtles and tortoises face, such as smuggling, habitat destruction, pet trade, and live exotic food markets. According to experts, turtles are the most threatened of the major groups of vertebrates, more so than birds, mammals, and fish.
31 May
World No Tobacco Day
The theme for 2023 is “We need food, not tobacco, " emphasising the importance of healthy food choices and prioritising food over tobacco. The 2023 campaign also aims to expose the tobacco industry’s efforts to interfere with attempts to substitute tobacco growing with sustainable crops, thereby contributing to the global food crisis. Tobacco growing and production exacerbates food insecurity, soil degradation, deforestation, and desertification.
1 June
World Reef Day
Coral reefs are essential ocean habitats that provide food, protection, income, and biodiversity for millions of people and marine species. Help coral reefs by being responsible visitors, using reef-friendly products, choosing sustainable seafood, reducing pollution and emissions, and spreading awareness. Support coral reef restoration projects by donating funds to organisations such as coral gardeners.
3 June
World Bicycle Day
An event that promotes the use of bicycles as a means of sustainable transportation, health, education, and social inclusion. Celebrate the day by riding your bike, joining a local cycling event, wearing a helmet and reef-friendly sunscreen, and spreading the word about the importance of bicycles for our planet and our future.
5 June
World Environment Day
It aims to raise awareness and inspire action for the protection and restoration of our natural world. The day also recognizes the efforts and achievements of individuals, communities, and organizations that are working to create a greener future. The 2023 celebration will be hosted by Côte d’Ivoire, in partnership with the Netherlands.
6 June
World Green Roof Day
Green roofs are important for climate change adaptation, biodiversity, urban greening, and well-being. Green roofs are nature’s allies in the fight against climate change. They soothe the scorching heat, save money and energy, soak up the rain, store the carbon, shelter the wildlife, and uplift the mood.
8 June
World Oceans Day
A healthy ocean is a critical part of the solution to the climate and biodiversity crises, and protecting at least 30% of our lands, waters, and ocean by 2030 (30x30) is necessary to give the planet a chance to recover and protect millions of species from extinction. By supporting this 30×30 project, together we can protect our planet’s life support systems – specifically the interconnected issues of ocean, climate, and biodiversity.
15 June
Nature Photography Day
Nature Photography Day is a fun holiday that celebrates the art and joy of capturing the beauty of nature through cameras. The day aims to raise awareness of the importance of nature photography for the conservation and protection of plants, wildlife, and landscapes. The day also encourages people to explore and enjoy nature through their lenses and share their images with others.
16 June
World Sea Turtle Day
Sea turtles help maintain the health of seagrass beds and coral reefs that benefit commercially valuable species such as shrimp, lobster, and tuna. Turtles seem to prefer red, orange and yellow-coloured food. They appear to investigate these colours more than others when looking for a meal. So reducing marine plastic pollution is critical to saving turtles.
16 June
Fresh Veggies Day
Fresh Veggies Day is a day to celebrate the nutritional value and health benefits of fresh vegetables. It aims to create awareness about the importance of consuming fresh vegetables for metabolism, growth, development, and disease prevention. The day also encourages people to visit local farmers’ markets, grow their own vegetables, or try new recipes with fresh veggies
17 June
World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
The theme for 2023 is "Her land. Her rights.". Women face significant barriers in securing land rights, limiting their ability to thrive and prosper. And when land becomes degraded and water is scarce, women are often the worst affected. Investing in women’s equal access to land and associated assets is a direct investment in their future and the future of humanity.
21 June
World Giraffe Day
Giraffes help regulate the growth of plants, disperse seeds, create habitats for other animals, and provide food for predators and scavengers. Their presence or absence can signal changes in vegetation, climate, and wildlife populations. They are threatened by habitat loss, civil unrest, illegal hunting, and ecological changes in their natural range.
22 June
World Rainforest Day
Rainforests are beneficial for the planet because they are carbon sinks, water factories, biodiversity hotspots, medicine cabinets, and cultural treasures. Rainforests are threatened by deforestation, poaching, climate change, and fires that harm their ecosystems and the planet. To save rainforests, we need to use their resources wisely, support ecotourism, regulate their exploitation, and advocate for their protection.
3 July
Plastic Bag Free Day
A day to raise awareness about the harmful impacts of single-use plastic bags on our environment, our wildlife, and our health. Celebrate the day by ditching the plastic and using reusable bags, joining a beach clean-up campaign, wearing a reusable mask and gloves, and spreading the word about the need to reduce plastic waste for our planet and our future.
4 July
Independence from Meat Day
A day to raise awareness about the impacts of meat consumption on health, animals, and the environment. It encourages people to try a vegan, vegetarian, or at least flexitarian lifestyle. Also, a day to explore the alternatives to meat that are available from plant sources. Meat production is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, water scarcity, land degradation, and biodiversity loss.
4 July
International Jackfruit Day
Jackfruit can be eaten raw, cooked, or processed into various products, such as chips, jams, ice creams, and even meat substitutes. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre, and has many health benefits. It also has many uses beyond food, such as its wood, seeds, roots, and leaves. Jackfruit is a sustainable and climate-resilient crop that can help reduce hunger and poverty in many parts of the world.
12 July
Paper Bag Day
Paper bags are 100% biodegradable, reusable, and recyclable. Many paper bags can withstand more pressure and weight than plastic bags. Using paper bags also reduce the risks of suffocation to young children or animals.
14 July
World Chimpanzee Day
A day to honour Dr Jane Goodall's legacy and to raise awareness about the threats that chimpanzees face from habitat loss, poaching, disease, and climate change. It is a day to respect and protect these wonderful animals and to support the efforts to conserve them and their habitats. Chimpanzees are also vital for the health and diversity of the forests they live in, as they disperse seeds and create habitats for other animals.
14 July
Shark Awareness Day
Sharks are vital for the health and balance of the ocean, as they keep other populations in check and maintain the food web. They have been around for millions of years, but today they face many threats from human activities, such as overfishing, bycatch, habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Many shark species are endangered or vulnerable to extinction and need our protection and conservation.
16 July
World Snake Day
An opportunity to celebrate snakes and raise awareness about their preservation. While snakes are threatened by many of the same issues that affect all wildlife (habitat loss, climate change, and disease), negative attitudes toward snakes may be the biggest barrier to their preservation because it often impedes efforts to address other threats.
26 July
Mangrove Ecosystem Conservation Day
Mangroves are rare, spectacular and prolific ecosystems on the boundary between land and sea. These extra ordinary ecosystems contribute to the wellbeing, food security, and protection of coastal communities worldwide. It is estimated that more than a third of the world’s mangroves have been lost in the last 50 years, with serious consequences for biodiversity, climate, and human security.
28 July
World Nature Conservation Day
In order to keep the world healthy, it is important to preserve the environment and natural resources. World Nature Conservation Day focuses on saving threatened plants and animals. It also encourages us to adopt sustainable practices and lifestyles that reduce our environmental impact and enhance our harmony with nature.
29 July
International Tiger Day
The goal of the day is to promote a global system for protecting the natural habitats of tigers and to raise public awareness and support for tiger conservation issues. They are important for the health and balance of the ecosystems they live in, as they are apex predators and keystone species.
4 August
International Clouded Leopard Day
It is a day of international awareness and an attempt to increase the profile of Clouded leopards both in captivity and in the wild. This elusive species is categorized as vulnerable in IUCN conservation status.
9 August
International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples
The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is a day to celebrate the diversity and resilience of the world’s indigenous peoples, who face many challenges and injustices. They have an integral collective and community role as carers of natural resources and keepers of scientific knowledge.
10 August
World Lion Day
Lions maintain ecological balance and ensure the protection of natural forests and help in the conservation of biodiversity. The government of India is initiating schemes and projects for the conservation of lions.
12 August
World Elephant Day
The goal of World Elephant Day is to create awareness of the urgent plight of African and Asian elephants, and to share knowledge and positive solutions for the better care and management of captive and wild elephants.
19 August
International Orangutan Day
The day is marked to save species that are on the edge of extinction and to raise awareness about the predicament of this species, which has progressed from endangered to critically endangered. The day is marked to save species that are on the edge of extinction and to raise awareness about the predicament of this species, which has progressed from endangered to critically endangered.
20 August
World Mosquito Day
A day that commemorates the scientific discovery and the public health significance of mosquitoes. It is celebrated on August 20 every year, the date when Sir Ronald Ross found out that malaria is transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes in 1897. The day also aims to raise awareness and alertness about the diseases caused by mosquitoes and how to prevent them, as well as to celebrate the achievements of science and medicine in fighting malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases.
22 August
World Plant Milk Day
The day is marked annually to spread awareness among people about the benefits of drinking plant milk, a substitute for dairy milk and is used to make ice cream. Plant-based milk is lactose-free and the best substitute for cow milk. From soy to oat to cashew to hemp: the diversity of vegan milk continues to grow in tandem with the global shift towards plant-based eating.
30 August
International whale shark day
A day for promoting the study and preservation of the largest fish in the world. They feed on plankton and travel large distances to find enough food to sustain their huge size, and to reproduce, in fact, the distribution of whale sharks indicates the presence of plankton and the overall health of our oceans. Their white spotted colouration makes these gentle giants easy to distinguish, and popular with snorkelers and divers at sites where they aggregate off the coast. Unfortunately, whale sharks are in decline in some areas due to overfishing, bycatch, and habitat destruction.
First Saturday of September
International Vulture Awareness Day
Vultures are ecologically vital and are now the most threatened group of birds in the world; populations of many species are under pressure and some are facing extinction.
16 September
World Ozone Day
This years theme is "Montreal Protocol - Keeping us, our food and vaccines cool". The Montreal Protocol does so much - such as slowing climate change and helping to boost energy efficiency in the cooling sector, which contributes to food security.
Third Saturday of September
International Red Panda Day
Red pandas are native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China, where they live in high-altitude temperate forests with bamboo understory. They face threats from deforestation, fragmentation, and degradation of their forest home, as well as from hunting for their fur and body parts, and also vulnerable to diseases and parasites and have low reproductive rates. Help them by donating to organisations such as The Red Panda Network, an organization that works to conserve the red panda and its habitat in Nepal and other countries.
Third Saturday of September
International Coastal Cleanup Day
A global event that engages volunteers to remove trash from the world’s beaches and waterways. In addition to cleaning beaches and waterways, volunteers contribute to the world’s largest database on marine debris. Marine debris is one of the greatest threats our ocean faces, but luckily it is an issue with which we can all play a part in the solution.
Septemeber 17
Septemeber 17
Manta rays are close relatives of all sharks and rays, meaning they have a skeleton made of cartilage rather than bone. Unsustainable and unregulated tourism can drive mantas away from important cleaning and feeding sites through overcrowding and poor in-water behaviour. Climate breakdown threatens to change the distribution and abundance of zooplankton which mantas feed on.
September 18
World Water Monitoring Day
The day aims to raise awareness and involvement in protecting water resources around the world by empowering citizens to carry out basic monitoring of their local water bodies. Join the observance day celebration by using a simple test kit to sample local water bodies for temperature, acidity (pH), clarity (turbidity) and dissolved oxygen (DO).
21 September
Zero Emissions Day
The goal of zero emission day is to help reduce carbon emissions from the atmosphere and give the planet a break. We can use this day as an opportunity to raise awareness to minimize our carbon footprint.
Fourth Friday of September
Hug a Vegetarian Day
A day to celebrate and appreciate those who have chosen to live a meat-free and animal-product-free lifestyle. Being vegetarian may improve your health by lowering your risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and obesity. It may also help animals and the environment by reducing animal suffering, resource consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions.
September 22
World Rhino Day
Rhinos are amazing animals that play a vital role in maintaining the health and diversity of their habitats. You can adopt a rhino through WWF or other organizations that work to protect rhinos and their habitats. By adopting a rhino, you can contribute to the funding of anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, community engagement, and other conservation efforts.
Fourth Saturday of September
International Rabbit Day
A global observance dedicated to raising awareness about the well-being and welfare of rabbits, while also highlighting their importance as companion animals and in the wild. Rabbits are prone to viral diseases and can become easy prey for a lot of animals.
Fourth Sunday of September
World River Day
Rivers are the arteries of our planet; they are lifelines in the truest sense. World Rivers Day events include river cleanups, educational outings, community festivals, art projects, and more. You can join the celebration by visiting your local river, using water wisely, choosing eco-friendly products, and spreading the word about river conservation.
September 29
International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste
The goal of this day is to raise awareness of the importance of food loss and waste. Food loss and waste have many negative economic and environmental impacts. When food is wasted, the resources that go into producing and making food available to consumers are also wasted. Reducing food loss and waste can improve food security and nutrition, lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduce pressures on natural resources such as land and water.
September 30
Save the Koala Day
Koalas are one of Australia’s most iconic and beloved animals, but they face threats from habitat loss, climate change, disease, and human activity, contributing to population declines. You can do your part to prevent the unthinkable from happening by adopting a koala, planting a tree, making a donation, or sharing educational resources about koalas and their habitats.
2 October
World Farm Animals Day
World Farm Animals Day was founded to highlight the poor conditions suffered by some farm animals, and promote awareness against cruelty.
First Monday of October
World Habitat Day
This day is intended to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the future of the human habitat. This years theme is "Mind the Gap. Leave No One and No Place Behind'
4 October
World Animal Day
To raise the status of animals in order to improve welfare standards around the globe. Through increased awareness and education we can create a world where animals are always recognised as sentient beings and full regard is always paid to their welfare.
7 October
World Cotton Day
A day to raise awareness about the need for market access for cotton products from least developed countries, foster sustainable trade policies, & enable developing countries to benefit more from the cotton value chain. Celebrated in collaboration with the WTO, FAO, UNCTAD, ITC and ICAC. China & India are the world's largest producers of cotton
8 October
World Octopus Day
World Octopus Day is celebrated on October 8th every year to raise awareness about these fascinating creatures. Octopuses are known for their intelligence, adaptability, and unique physical characteristics like camouflage.
13 October
International Day for Disaster Reduction
This year's theme is 'From Risk to Resilience: Towards Sustainable Development For All in a COVID-19 Transformed World'.
14 October
International E-Waste Day
This year, the main focus of International E-Waste Day will be those small electrical devices that we no longer use but keep in drawers and cupboards or often toss in the general waste bin.
16 October
World Food Day
This years theme will be 'leave no one behind’. Indigenous Peoples are guardians of 80 percent of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity on 22 percent of the Earth’s surface, yet globally, they suffer higher rates of poverty, malnutrition and internal displacement compared to non- indigenous groups.
1 November
World Vegan Day
Veganism is the practice of abstaining from the use of animal products, particularly in diet. Vegan food reduces the risks of many diseases and provides you with healthier alternatives to satiate your cravings.
3 November
World Jellyfish Day
The jellyfish has a significant impact on the biomass, spatiotemporal dynamics, and community structure of the global marine plankton ecosystems.They provide food for us, house young fish in their tentacles, and are being studied for potential medical applications.
3 November
One Health Day
One Health is a collaborative, multisectoral, and trans-disciplinary approach — working at the local, regional, national, and global levels — with the goal of achieving optimal health outcomes recognizing the interconnection between people, animals, plants, and their shared environment.
3 November
International Day for Biosphere Reserves
The World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) was formed in 1971, as a backbone for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and living in harmony with nature.
5 November
World Tsunami Awareness Day
Tsunamis can have long-lasting effects on the environment, economy and society of the affected areas. It can be prevented or mitigated by adopting various measures, such as building seawalls, breakwaters, mangroves and other coastal barriers, relocating people and assets away from the shore, enforcing strict building codes and land use regulations, and improving disaster risk governance and coordination.
6 November
International day for preventing of exploitation of the environment in war and armed conflicts
The theme for this year’s observance is "The Earth does not belong to us: we belong to the Earth". The theme invites us to reflect on our relationship with the planet and our responsibility to protect it from harm, especially in times of war and armed conflict.
10 November
World Science Day for Peace and Development
The theme of this year is "Building Trust in Science". This theme highlights the need for enhancing trust in science among scientists, policymakers, and society. Trust in science is vital for developing and applying evidence-based solutions to global challenges. Trust in science also affects the way science is conducted and communicated.
Third Thursday of November
Use Less Stuff Day
A day to raise awareness about the environmental impact of our consumption and waste, and to encourage us to adopt a more minimalist and sustainable lifestyle. Reduce your consumption of disposable items, such as plastic bottles, paper cups, and plastic bags. Use reusable alternatives instead, such as glass bottles, ceramic mugs, and cloth bags.
19 November
World Toilet Day
To inspire action to tackle the global sanitation crisis that affects billions of people around the world who are living without access to a safely managed toilet. The theme for World Toilet Day 2023 is “Accelerating Change” and it encourages everyone to do something to help solve the problem of inadequate sanitation.
26 November
Buy Nothing Day
Buy Nothing Day is a day of protest in which participants pledge to buy nothing for 24 hours to raise awareness of the negative environmental, social, and political consequences of overconsumption. It is typically observed in North America on the Friday following Thanksgiving Day in the United States, which is one of the busiest shopping days of the year.
27 November
Turtle Adoption Day
Different from World Turtle Day, World Turtle Adoption Day focuses on the adoption and care of turtles that are stranded and are in need of love. Turtles are reptiles that live in various habitats around the world, but many of them are threatened by human activities, such as hunting, pollution, and habitat loss.
29 November
International Jaguar Day
The jaguar is an icon of cultural heritage and sustainable development in Central and South America, where it has been revered for centuries by indigenous peoples. The jaguar is also a vital part of the ecosystems it inhabits, helping to maintain the balance of prey and predators, and dispersing seeds of many plants.
30 November
International ESG Day
A global initiative that aims to raise awareness and action on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. The celebration recognizes the efforts of individuals, organizations, and communities who are committed to shaping a sustainable, ethical, and inclusive future.
3 December
World Coati Day
An annual event that aims to raise awareness and conservation efforts for the coatimundi, a relative of the raccoon that lives in Central and South America. It is celebrated on December 3rd, which is in the middle of the coati breeding season. World Coati Day was founded by Rhianna Wilton, a wildlife specialist and zookeeper from Australia, who wanted to share the beauty and facts about these unique and underappreciated animals.
4 December
International Cheetah Day
A day to celebrate and raise awareness about the world’s fastest land animal, the cheetah. It was founded by Dr. Laurie Marker, an American zoologist who dedicated her life to cheetah conservation in Namibia. The date of December 4th was chosen in honour of Khayam, a cheetah cub that Dr. Marker raised and took to Namibia for a wildlife experiment. The day aims to educate people about the threats that cheetahs face and how to protect them from extinction.
4 December
World Wildlife Conservation Day
An annual event that aims to raise awareness and take action to protect the planet’s wildlife biodiversity. It is celebrated on December 4 and was initiated by the United States in 2012 to combat the illegal trade of endangered species. Some of the most threatened wildlife species include tigers, pandas, gorillas, rhinos, and orangutans. They face various challenges such as habitat loss, poaching, hunting, and human-wildlife conflict. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure their survival and the health of the ecosystems they inhabit.
5 December
World Soil Day
An annual observance that aims to raise awareness of the importance of healthy soil and sustainable soil management practices. It is celebrated on December 5, which coincides with the birthday of the late King Bhumibol of Thailand, who was a champion of soil conservation. The theme for World Soil Day 2023 is “Soil and water, a source of life”, which highlights the vital link between soil and water for food security, ecosystem services, and human well-being.
9 December
International Day of Veterinary Medicine
A day to celebrate and appreciate the work of veterinarians and veterinary organizations around the world. It is observed on December 9th every year, which marks the anniversary of the founding of the first veterinary school in Lyon, France in 1762. The day also highlights the importance of animal health and welfare for human health and the environment.
10 December
International Animal Rights Day
An annual event that honours animals as sentient beings who deserve the same protections as humans. It is observed on December 10 every year, coinciding with Human Rights Day. The event aims to raise awareness of animal exploitation, mourn the animal victims of human tyranny, and rally support for universal animal welfare.
11 December
International Mountain Day
Celebrated annually on December 11 to raise awareness about the importance of mountains to both life and climate. The theme of this year’s International Mountain Day is Restoring Mountain Ecosystems. This theme was selected to fully include mountains in the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021–2030, co-led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN and the UN Environment Programme.
14 December
Sustainable Entrepreneurship Day
The day aims to promote the importance of sustainability in entrepreneurship. Sustainable entrepreneurship refers to the practice of creating businesses that not only generate profits but also consider social, environmental, and economic factors. The theme for the day focuses on “Ecosystems for Entrepreneurship”.
27 December
The International Day of Epidemic Preparedness
A global observance that aims to raise awareness and action to prevent, prepare for, and respond to epidemics. The day is observed to stress the significance of partnership and solidarity among individuals, communities, and states in all stages of epidemic management, to recognize the primary role and responsibility of governments and the indispensable contribution of relevant stakeholders, especially women, who make up the majority of the world’s health workers, and to promote the exchange of information, scientific knowledge, and best practices on epidemics at the local, national, regional, and global levels.
20 January
Penguin Awareness Day
A day to celebrate and learn more about these amazing aquatic birds. Penguins are fascinating and adorable creatures, but they are also facing many threats, such as climate change, overfishing, pollution, and predators. The world’s second-largest colony of emperor penguins has nearly disappeared after changes in sea/ice conditions made their breeding ground unstable. The species might lose anywhere between 50% and 70% of its global population by the end of this century.
24 January
International Day of Education
Without inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong opportunities for all, countries will not succeed in achieving gender equality and breaking the cycle of poverty that is leaving millions of children, youth and adults behind.
28 January
International reducing co2 emissions day
This day intends to change the way countries around the world operate by raising public awareness to the point where governments will support anti-emission measures. Since CO2 is such a big contributor to climate change, this event seeks to aid the world’s transition to a cleaner environment. The awareness of the need to reduce greenhouse gas or CO2 emissions has been on the radar of scientists for more than 100 years.
2 February
World Wetlands Day
A call to take action for wetlands is the focus of this years’ campaign. It's an appeal to invest financial, human and political capital to save the world’s wetlands from disappearing and to restore those we have degraded
10 February
World Pulses Day
Pulses are low in fat and rich in soluble fiber, which can lower cholesterol and help in the control of blood sugar. The celebration aims to raise awareness of the health benefits of consuming pulses, their role in food security, and the environmental benefits of growing them, such as their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers.
15 February
World Hippo Day
Hippos are semiaquatic mammals that are native to sub-Saharan Africa. Hippos are facing many threats, such as habitat loss, drought, hunting, and poaching. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) listed them as a vulnerable species in 2006 after estimating that their population had declined by about 20% in the previous two decades.
Third Saturday of February
World Pangolin Day
Pangolins are hunted down extensively for their scales are unfortunately believed to be a cure-all of sorts and pangolin flesh is considered a delicacy. The population is in decline as they are the most trafficked species in the world.
Third Sunday of February
World Whale Day
To celebrate the beauty and diversity of whales, and to raise awareness about the threats they face from human activities such as pollution, climate change, and whaling. Whaling is a complex and contentious issue that involves ethical, environmental, and economic factors. Many people oppose whaling because they believe that whales are intelligent, social, and endangered animals that deserve protection and respect.
27 February
International Polar Bear Day
To raise awareness about the impact of global warming and reduced sea ice on polar bear populations. The day was established to coincide with the time period when polar bear moms and cubs were snug in their dens. On average, only about half of all cubs reach adulthood, with even lower survival rates in the most vulnerable populations.
27 February
World NGO Day
The day aims to inspire people to become more involved with NGOs and their causes, and to raise awareness of the various challenges and opportunities they face. They help to address various social, environmental, and humanitarian issues around the world, such as poverty, hunger, health, education, human rights, disaster relief, and more.
3 March
World Wildlife Day
The theme for World Wildlife Day 2024 is Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation. This theme highlights the role of digital technologies and innovations in protecting and conserving wildlife and their habitats.
7 March
Plant Power Day
A day dedicated to celebrating and promoting the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle. And to raise awareness about the many benefits of plant-based diets, including their positive impact on human health, animal welfare, and the environment.
14 March
International Day of Action for Rivers
The theme for 2024 is Water for All. This theme focuses on the uneven access to clean water and the pollution occurring due to human activities. Participate in river cleanups, webinars, walks, or paddleboard events in your area or online.
14 March
Science Education Day
Celebrated on the birthday of famous physicist Albert Einstein, the day aims to inspire curiosity, creativity, and innovation among students and teachers, and to highlight the role of science in solving global challenges. It is a great opportunity to appreciate the wonders of science and its contributions to humanity.
18 March
Global Recycling Day
The theme for 2024 is Recycling Heroes. This theme recognizes the people, places, and activities that showcase what an important role recycling plays in contributing to a greener future. Watch or listen to some documentaries, videos, or podcasts that explain the value and challenges of recycling.
21 March
International Day of Forests
The theme for 2024 is Forests and Health. This theme recognizes the linkages between forests and human health, and how forests can provide food, medicine, clean air, and water, as well as reduce stress and improve well-being. Visit a forest museum, park, or reserve and learn about the work of forest managers, scientists, and communities.
22 March
World Water Day
An annual event that aims to raise awareness and take action on the global water crisis. It is held on 22 March every year since 1993, and each year has a different theme related to water issues. The theme for 2024 is “Leveraging Water for Peace”, which focuses on how water can be a tool for cooperation and conflict resolution among communities and countries.
23 March
World Bear Day
A global event that celebrates all eight species of bears and raises awareness about their threats and conservation. Bears have excellent senses of smell, sight, and hearing. They can smell food, cubs, a mate, or predators from miles away. Their great eyesight allows them to detect when fruits are ripe.
25 March
Anniversary of Chipko Movement
The Chipko Movement was a forest conservation movement that started in the 1970s in Uttarakhand, India. It was primarily led by women who hugged trees to prevent them from being cut down. The movement played a significant role in promoting environmental conservation and raising awareness about the importance of forests for local communities.