IN SHORT
- The International Day of the Tropics is observed on June 29th.
- The day celebrates the biodiversity and importance of tropical regions.Established by the UN on June 14, 2016.
- Highlights include biodiversity, climate regulation, natural resources, cultural diversity, and economic significance.Challenges include climate change, deforestation, urbanization, biodiversity loss, and demographic shifts.
- Observances include educational events, scientific conferences, cultural celebrations, conservation efforts, and media campaigns.
Every year on June 29th, people throughout the world celebrate the International Day of the Tropics. This day is dedicated to celebrating the world’s tropical areas’ enormous contributions and rich biodiversity. It seeks to raise awareness around the world of the particular difficulties and possibilities that tropical regions encounter, highlighting their crucial role in both the Earth’s environment and human civilization.
Understanding the Tropics
The region between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn is referred to as the tropics. This region is known for:
- Warm temperatures that are retained all year round
- Minimal variations in seasonal temperatures
- Heavy rains, especially in the equatorial regions
- Rich and diverse fauna and flora
The planet’s most biodiverse ecosystems, including mangrove swamps, coral reefs, and rainforests, may be found in the tropics. These areas host a huge diversity of animals and are essential to regulating the climate.
History of the International Day of the Tropics
The UN General Assembly formally recognized June 29th as the International Day of the Tropics on June 14, 2016, when it passed resolution A/RES/70/267. This date is commemorated annually. In 2014, Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi of Myanmar released the first “State of the Tropics Report.” The paper, which was produced in collaboration with twelve of the top tropical research organizations, included an extensive examination of the quickly changing conditions in tropical areas.
Importance of the Tropics
Tropical areas are extremely important for a number of reasons, including:
- Biodiversity: Almost all coral species and around 80% of all terrestrial species worldwide are found in the tropics.
- Climate Regulation: Oceans and tropical forests have a major role in controlling the planet’s temperature.
- Natural Resources: The tropics are rich in important resources, including minerals, wood, and therapeutic plants.
- Cultural Diversity: A wide range of indigenous cultures with deep cultural traditions and expertise reside in the tropics.
- Economic Contribution: Global agriculture, tourism, and other economic sectors rely heavily on tropical climates.
Celebrating the International Day of the Tropics
The International Day of the Tropics aims to achieve several goals:
- Increasing Awareness: Spread knowledge about the value and difficulties faced by tropical areas throughout the world.
- Raising Awareness: Educate people globally about the importance and challenges of tropical regions.
- Promoting Sustainable Development: Highlight the critical role tropical countries play in achieving sustainability goals.
- Sharing Knowledge: Provide a platform for exchanging tropical research, stories, and best practices.
- Recognizing Progress: Assess and celebrate advancements in addressing tropical issues.
- Encouraging Cooperation: Foster international collaboration in research, conservation, and sustainable development in tropical areas.
Activities and Observances
The International Day of the Tropics is marked by various activities, including
- Workshops and educational activities
- Symposia and conferences in science
- Cultural events showing the variety of the tropics
- Initiatives for environmental conservation
- Public awareness campaigns using the media
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