March 3rd is World Wildlife Day. Designated as a day to celebrate and raise awareness of the world’s wild fauna and flora, World Wildlife Day emphasizes the importance of wildlife in sustaining the livelihoods of individuals around the globe. This year’s theme, “Forests and Livelihoods: Sustaining People and Planet”, particularly highlights the central role of forests, forest species and ecosystems services and the connection these areas have with Indigenous and local communities with historic ties to forested and forest-adjacent areas. Between 200 and 350 million people that live near forested areas around the world rely on the numerous ecosystem services provided by these forests for their livelihoods, including their most basic needs, such as food, shelter, energy and medicines.
There is mounting evidence that healthy habitats and robust wildlife contribute to the well-being of both individuals and communities. Additionally, many conservationists, scientists, and non-governmental organizations are beginning to recognize the value of animals beyond a purely economic metric. Wildlife is declining at a slower rate on indigenous lands and lands where the people have a close and historic relationship of living in harmony with nature and wildlife. Conservationists and policy makers can learn lessons from the history of indigenous and local nature stewardship and also must support local communities if we are going to save the remaining global biodiversity.
Click here to join the United Nations’ virtual celebration from 8:00am to 11:00am EST.