A List of Environmental Holidays

The UN and various other international organizations have designated certain dates to celebrate environmental awareness. These calendar dates were chosen to remind people that environment protection is as important to the future generation as it is to the present generation. The future belongs to the youth, and the present generation has a responsibility to secure that future for them.

There are many ways to learn about environmental awareness. It takes only a few steps to understand what issues and challenges affect the environment. Attending seminars and learning about environmental laws is a good start. Reading further on the subject is also a way to get more knowledge on man-made environmental threats. Being environmentally aware is protecting your future.

Environmental Awareness

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), an agency of the UN is linked to environmental awareness programs that would bring these issues to world thought and response. It was established in 1972 and since then, many other similar organizations have taken root and made significant contributions. Some environmental dates are celebrated nationwide while others are international events.

World Wetlands Day

World Wetlands Day takes place every February 2. It promotes global wetlands and its value and benefits. It counts 100 member countries and sponsors a youth photo contest with a new theme each year.

International Polar Bear Day

International Polar Bear Day is observed on February 27. It focuses on polar bear needs for its habitat conservation with reduced population caused by the impact of global warming. Many zoos around the world help celebrate this day to remind people of climate change as well.

World Wildlife Day

World Wildlife Day takes place on March 3. It was originally proposed by Thailand to make people aware of world wildlife conservation. It focuses on wildlife links to human well-being and sustainable development of wildlife trade around the world.

International Day of Forests

The International Day of Forests takes place on March 21. It is celebrated around the world with tree-planting activities. There are discussions on climate change and mitigation as well. Its celebration is marked with art, photo, and film events to raise awareness of the importance of forests worldwide.

International Migratory Bird Day

International Migratory Bird Day, celebrated across the US and Canada on the second Saturday of May, is filled with guided bird walks, bird banding, and other avian-related activities. Eye-opening, interesting avian information is shared among bird lovers and conservationists. Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America celebrate this day on the second Saturday in October.

World Population Day

World Population Day takes place on July 11. The event focuses on global population issues such as human rights, poverty, gender equality, maternal health, and family planning. It also focuses on the need to control the growing population to sustainable levels. It was initiated in response to the Five Billion Day event which celebrated the 5 billion population count on earth on July 11, 1987.

Other important environmental dates are- World Oceans Day (June 8), World Cleanup Day (September 8), Car Free Day (September 22), World Soil Day (December 5), and many more dates that hold significance for the organizers and people worldwide.

Future Plans for Environmental Dates

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has many future plans for the numerous environmental dates that it has established. It continues to monitor and adjust these events according to their needs and progress. It continues to assess global, regional, and national environmental conditions and trends. It also develops international and national environment instruments. It also strengthens institutions for the wise management of the environment.