Leaders across the UN system have called for bolder action and more effective partnerships to protect endangered animals and plants, ahead of World Wildlife Day on Friday.
“One million species teeter on the brink of extinction, due to habitat destruction, fossil fuel pollution and the worsening climate crisis. We must end this war on nature,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned in his message for the Day.
The scores of species of fauna and flora under threat from human activities include some that may come as a surprise - such as giraffes, parrots and seaweeds - but the UN chief also pointed to some good news.
Landmark treaty turns 50: This year’s commemoration of World Wildlife Day also marks the 50th anniversary of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
The treaty, signed on 3 March 1973, has helped protect thousands of species of plants and animals.
Furthermore, in December governments adopted an agreement known as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, aimed at achieving a tenfold reduction in the extinction rate of all species by mid-century.
‘Bolder actions’ needed: Mr. Guterres noted that the theme for the Day – ‘Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation’ – highlights the need to work across governments, civil society, and the private sector to turn commitment into action. “And we need much bolder actions now to cut emissions, accelerate renewables, and build climate resilience,” he added.
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Posted On: 03/03/2023