International Day of the Tropics 2025 Observed on June 29 to Highlight Challenges and Diversity.
Important Days
Every year on June 29, the United Nations (UN) observes International Day of the Tropics to honour the vital ecological and cultural importance of tropical regions while spotlighting the environmental and developmental challenges they face.
- Tropical zones span between the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn, covering roughly 40 % of Earth’s land area and housing nearly 80 % of global biodiversity. They sustain rich ecosystems such as rainforests, coral reefs, and mangrove forests, which are essential for climate regulation and natural resources.
- Nearly 40 % of the world’s population lives in the tropics, with two-thirds of the world’s children expected to reside there by 2050. Tropical societies are marked by remarkable cultural diversity, indigenous knowledge systems, and vibrant traditions.
- Despite their richness, tropical regions struggle with climate change impacts, deforestation, urban sprawl, and biodiversity loss. Additionally, high poverty rates, slum proliferation, and water scarcity make them disproportionately vulnerable to global shocks.
Main Point :- (i) The first ‘State of the Tropics’ report was published on 29 June 2014, and following its success, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/70/267 in 2016, officially declaring June 29 as the International Day of the Tropics.
(ii) This day aims to foster global solidarity, data-driven policy responses, and partnerships for sustainable tropical development.
(iii) Each observance prompts governments, NGOs, researchers, and schools worldwide to hold seminars, exhibitions, panel discussions, and digital campaigns. Activities focus on protecting tropical biodiversity, supporting resilient livelihoods, and bolstering inclusivity in policymaking to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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