International Day of the Tropics

Celebrating the Tropics

The International Day of the Tropics is a global celebration that acknowledges the importance of the tropics and the significant role they play in sustaining life on Earth. The tropics are home to an incredible array of biodiversity, with lush rainforests, vibrant coral reefs, and majestic mountain ranges. This day serves as a reminder of the need to protect and preserve these precious ecosystems.

A Region of Abundance

The tropics are often referred to as the 'breadbasket' of the world, producing a significant portion of the global food supply. The region is home to an astonishing array of crops, including coffee, chocolate, bananas, and sugarcane. The International Day of the Tropics recognizes the vital contribution of the tropics to global food security and the livelihoods of millions of people.

A Call to Action

As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss, the International Day of the Tropics serves as a call to action. It's a reminder of the urgent need to protect the tropics and their inhabitants, and to promote sustainable development that benefits both people and the planet.

The United Nations' Initiative

The International Day of the Tropics was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2016, in response to the growing recognition of the importance of the tropics. The resolution was adopted to raise awareness about the significance of the tropics and to promote sustainable development in the region.

A Region of Diversity

The tropics encompass a vast region that spans across three continents, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The region is home to over 40% of the world's population, with more than 3 billion people living in the tropics. The International Day of the Tropics celebrates the rich cultural diversity of the region, with its vibrant traditions, languages, and customs.

A Commitment to Sustainability

The International Day of the Tropics is a commitment to promoting sustainable development in the region. It's a recognition of the need to balance economic growth with environmental protection and social justice. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of working together to address the unique challenges facing the tropics, and to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

Get Involved

Celebrate the International Day of the Tropics by getting involved in local initiatives that promote sustainable development in the region. You can participate in tree-planting activities, support conservation efforts, or volunteer with organizations that work with tropical communities.

Learn More

Take the opportunity to learn more about the tropics and their significance. Read about the region's unique ecosystems, its rich cultural heritage, and the challenges facing the region. You can also explore the work of organizations that are dedicated to promoting sustainable development in the tropics.

Share Your Story

Share your own story about the tropics and why they matter to you. You can write a blog post, create a video, or share a social media post about the importance of protecting the tropics. Use the hashtag #InternationalDayOfTheTropics to join the global conversation.

Environmental Degradation

• Deforestation and land degradation
• Pollution and climate change
• Overfishing and destruction of coral reefs

Social Injustice

• Exploitation of indigenous communities
• Unfair labor practices
• Lack of access to education and healthcare

Unsustainable Development

• Unregulated tourism
• Unchecked urbanization
• Over-reliance on non-renewable energy sources