May 22: International Day for Biological Diversity

Every year, on May 22, the International Day for Biological Diversity is marked by the United Nations. The day highlights the biodiversity issues.

This year, the day is being celebrated under the theme

Theme: Our Solutions are in nature

Significance of the theme

• The theme emphasizes on solidarity, hope and importance of working together to build future of life in harmony with nature.

Background

• The resolution to celebrate the day was adopted in 1992. 
• The day was initially celebrated on December 29 till 2000 starting from 1993. 
• It was marked on December 29 to celebrate the Day the Convention on Biological Diversity came into effect. 
• It was later shifted to May 22 to commemorate the adoption of convention at Rio Earth Summit.

Sustainable Development Goals

• The say falls under the ambit of SDG Goals of the UN after United Nations 2015 development agenda of SDG. 
• Through this the day addresses larger concerns such as sustainable agriculture, health, land degradation, desertification, energy, etc.