World Wildlife Day has been celebrated on the 1st March since 2014 and, with news coverage and enthusiasm surrounding environmental issues at a recent peak, this year’s event is set to be more important than ever.
We’ve put together a short guide to help you celebrate World Wildlife Day 2021 to its full potential.
What is World Wildlife Day?
Earth’s incredible biodiversity and the countless range of flora, fauna and animals that inhabit it make the planet unique, at least in the known universe. However, in December 2013 the UN felt the need to designate 1st March World Wildlife Day in order to raise awareness of the risks facing the living world as a result of human destruction.
The day is, first and foremost, a celebration of the natural world we are so lucky to live in. Authoritative bodies use it as an opportunity to educate and inspire us to protect the biodiversity we live in closest proximity to, and it is an excellent learning opportunity.
What is the theme this year?
World Wildlife Day 2021’s theme is “Forests and Livelihoods: Sustaining people and planet”. We all know the importance of forests when it comes to the air we breathe but they contribute so much more than oxygen to our lives. Covering nearly a third of our planet, more than hundreds of millions of people live within and live off of Earth’s forests, jungles and savannahs.
It can be difficult to imagine making a living from trees if you live in an urban centre, which is why this year’s focus will be on educating us all about the importance of woodlands for both individuals and the safety of our planet more generally.
How can I get involved?
The beauty of World Wildlife Day is there are countless ways to get involved. You can educate yourself on the issues being highlighted, through the many resources and events on World Wildlife Day’s website. You can start conversations with others, or watch the films recommended by the official World Wildlife Day Film Festival.
There are ways we can all become less environmentally damaging, from reducing our plastic usage to switching the car for a walk or cycle. There is no “one size fits all” solution, but you could find it helpful to take a carbon footprint quiz (like this one hosted by the World Wildlife Fund) in order to highlight ways in which you can improve.
You can also donate directly to charities and organisations helping wildlife, particularly if you want your money to have an impact locally, or for an animal or plant species that is particularly close to your heart.
Here at Pledjar, we help you to help the causes you care about without breaking the bank. Simply round up your card purchases to the nearest pound and donate the spare change each month. You’re in complete control, and could help the likes of the International Otter Survival Fund, the WWF or the Woodland Trust.
Find out more about giving with Pledjar today.
