International Day for Biological Diversity

By : Neha Dhyani

Updated : Apr 8, 2023, 21:41

International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated on May 22 to celebrate the biodiversity on our planet. This day was sanctioned by the United Nations in 1993. International Day for Biological Diversity also raises awareness about the issue of biodiversity threat and advocates for sustainable use of earth’s resources to preserve biodiversity.

Every year, the United Nations announces a unique theme for the day and holds conferences, seminars, etc. with global leaders and environmentalists. Find further information about the International Day for Biodiversity, its theme, history and significance in this article.

About Biodiversity Day

International Day for Biological Diversity is about celebrating the biological diversity on Earth. Our planet is home to diverse species, each equally unique. As we co-exist on this planet, we must ensure that our actions are not resulting in damaging other species. Biodiversity loss is on the rise due to human activities and Biodiversity Day aims to reverse this.

The United Nations General Assembly established this day in 1993 to get international cooperation in conserving biodiversity. Check out the overview of International Day for Biological Diversity here.

Day

International Day for Biological Diversity

Observed

May 22

Established in

1993

Established by

United Nations

International Day for Biological Diversity 2023 theme

To be announced

Aim

To raise awareness about the threat to biodiversity on our planet

Biodiversity Day Theme 2023

Every year, the United Nations announces a new theme on International Day for Biological Diversity. The theme generally revolves around making a call to action to encourage people to help preserve biodiversity. The Biodiversity Day theme 2023 is yet to be announced by the United Nations.

The International Day for Biological Diversity Day theme 2022 was “Building a shared future for all life”. This theme highlighted that since humans and other species share this planet together, humans should ensure that their development doesn’t cost other species their lives.

International Day for Biological Diversity Theme (2000–2023)

Check out the earlier Biodiversity Day theme from the year 2000 to 2023 below.

Year

Biodiversity Day Theme

2022

Building a shared future for all life

2021

We're part of the solution #ForNature

2020

Our solutions are in nature

2019

Our Biodiversity, Our Food, Our Health

2018

Celebrating 25 Years of Action for Biodiversity

2017

Biodiversity and Sustainable Tourism

2016

Mainstreaming Biodiversity; Sustaining People and their Livelihoods

2015

Convention on Biological Diversity

2014

Island Biodiversity

2013

Water and Biodiversity

2012

Marine Biodiversity

2011

Forest Biodiversity

2010

Biodiversity, Development and poverty reduction

2009

Invasive Alien Species

2008

Biodiversity and Agriculture

2007

Biodiversity and Climate Change

2006

Protect Biodiversity in Drylands

2005

Biodiversity: Life Insurance for our Changing World

2004

Biodiversity: Food, Water and Health for All

2003

Biodiversity and poverty alleviation – challenges for sustainable development

2000

Dedicated to forest biodiversity

Biodiversity Day History

Every year on May 22, International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated by all UN member states. But when was this day established? Check out the details about the history of Biodiversity Day here.

  • In 1991, the United Nations General Assembly sanctioned the International Day for Biological Diversity.
  • December 29, the day on which the Convention on Biological Diversity came into effect was chosen as Biodiversity Day.
  • In 2000, the United Nations proclaimed that instead of December 29, Biodiversity Day will be celebrated on May 22 every year.

Significance of International Day for Biological Diversity

Biodiversity Day is a significant event because it raises awareness about the effect of human activity on biodiversity. Many human activities are toxic and can leave a negative impact on the biodiversity of our planet, threatening the existence of species. International Day for Biological Diversity emphasizes the need for peaceful coexistence of species on Earth.

  • Biodiversity loss can harm the health of the Earth in many ways.
  • It is already leading to global warming and species extinction.
  • Biodiversity Day raises awareness about the need to take action now to save the planet.

Important Current Affairs Topics

World Asthma DayWorld Athletics Day
World Red Cross DayWorld Telecommunication Day
World Thalassemia DayNational Endangered Species Day
Anti-Terrorism DayWorld Laughter Day
World Tuna DayBuddha Purnima

FAQs on International Day for Biological Diversity

Q1. When is International Day for Biological Diversity celebrated?

International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated on May 22 every year. This day was sanctioned by the United Nations in 1993 to raise awareness about the deteriorating condition of biodiversity on Earth. Biodiversity Day is celebrated by all UN member states annually.

Q2. What is the theme of Biodiversity Day 2023?

The theme of International Day for Biological Diversity is yet to be announced by the United Nations. A new theme is announced for this day every year to celebrate unique species on our planet. This year’s theme is expected to be announced shortly.

Q3. Why do we celebrate International Day for Biological Diversity?

Earth is a unique planet because of its biological diversity. But human actions and other natural conditions are leading to biodiversity loss, which could result in ecological imbalance. International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated to raise awareness of this issue and discuss its solution.

Q4. Which day is celebrated as International Day for Biological Diversity?

Every year, May 22 is celebrated as the International Day for Biological Diversity. Earlier, this day was celebrated on December 29 until 2000 as the date marks the day of the Convention on Biological Diversity. In 2000, the United Nations announced that May 22 is to be designated as Biodiversity Day instead.

Q5. What was the Biodiversity Day theme 2022?

The theme of International Day for Biological Diversity 2022 was “Building a shared future for all life.” Since humans and other species share this planet together, humans should ensure that their development doesn’t cost other species their lives. Each year, the Biodiversity Day theme is set by the United Nations.

Q6. Is Biodiversity Day on December 29 or May 22?

Until 2000, December 29 was designated as International Day for Biological Diversity because the date commemorated the date of implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity. However, in 2000, the United Nations declared May 22 as Biodiversity Day.