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World Nature Conservation Day was first celebrated in 1972. (Image: Shutterstock)
World Nature Conservation Day has become an advocacy platform, pushing lawmakers to pass stricter environmental regulations and inspiring individuals and communities to adopt sustainable lifestyles.
People around the world come together to commemorate World Nature Conservation Day on 28 July each year. The occasion reminds us of how important it is to preserve the environment and our natural resources for future generations. It is a call to action, imploring individuals, groups and government institutions to proactively move towards sustainable behaviours that safeguard the health of the planet.
History of World Nature Conservation Day
World Nature Conservation Day was officially created during the 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm, Sweden.
The United Nations General Assembly recognized the urgent need for global environmental action when it formally designated July 28 as a day to raise awareness of the importance of protecting nature.
The day became a platform for advocacy, pushing lawmakers to pass stricter environmental regulations and inspiring individuals and communities to adopt sustainable lifestyles.
World Nature Conservation Day Quotes
- “And I dream of the vast deserts, the forests and all the wilderness of our continent, wild places that we must protect as a precious heritage for our children and our children's children. We must never forget that we must protect this environment.”— Nelson Mandela.
- “The earth provides enough for every man's need, but not for every man's greed.” — Mahatma Gandhi.
- “We will have no society if we destroy the environment.” — Margaret Mead.
- “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” — Robert Swan.
- “If conservation of natural resources goes wrong, nothing else will go right.” — Ms. Swaminathan.
- “Nature is not a place to visit. It is our home.” — Gary Snyder.
- “The Earth does not belong to us: we belong to the Earth.” — Marlee Matlin.
- “Look deeply into nature and then you will understand everything better.” — Albert Einstein.
- “Conservation is a state of harmony between man and the earth.” — Aldo Leopold.
- “Do not allow selfish men or greedy interests to spoil the beauty, the richness, and the romance of your country.” — Theodore Roosevelt.
How Can We Make A Difference?
- As the first generation to realize we are harming the planet, we may also be the last to be able to stop it. One of the most powerful actions is to speak up, especially when you do it to those who need to hear it.
- As a first guide to preserve and make a difference, the three Rs must be followed: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.
- Recycle single-use plastics whenever possible, such as straws, cotton swabs, cutlery, cups, etc.
- For short distances, walk or bike.
- Better switch to an electric car.
- When purchasing appliances, be sure to check their Energy Star ratings and choose the highest rating that fits your budget.
- Plant trees. Each tree acts as a small carbon sink. The shade provided by trees reduces cooling demand in our climate.
- Eat more locally grown and seasonal foods and throw away less.
- Shop at the grocery store and elsewhere with reusable bags.
- Both you and the environment can win by living a less consumerist lifestyle.
