On June 5th we observed World Environment Day, a day started by the United Nations Environment Program to raise awareness and have people take action to protect the planet and nature. The day is celebrated in over 100 countries and was started in 1974. Each year has a theme and this year focuses on preventing the illegal trade in wildlife.
Illegal trade in wildlife endangers the Earth’s biodiversity and drives animal species to extinction. Some of the animals at risk include rhinos, elephants, tigers and sea turtles. I once had the chance to swim with wild sea turtles and was amazed and awed by their size, beauty, intelligence and grace. They helped me better appreciate the beauty of the natural world and have inspired me to protect it.
Work to counter illegal trade has been successful but there is still more work to be done. Each one of our choices concerning travel, diet and consumption makes a difference. Please make sure you stand with endangered species and help safeguard them for your children and your children’s children. You matter and your actions make a difference. Thank you.