International Day of the Tropics is observed on 29th June each year to raise awareness about the significance of the tropics and the challenges faced by countries within this region. The tropics, located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, are home to a rich diversity of ecosystems, cultures, and natural resources.
International Day of the Tropics Theme 2023
The theme for the 2023 International Day of the Tropics is “The future belongs to the Tropics.” This theme highlights the importance of the tropics to the future of the planet, and the need to invest in the sustainable development of this region.
What are the Tropics?
The tropics are regions on Earth that are warm and sunny most of the year. They are found between two imaginary lines called the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. The tropics have a tropical climate with high temperatures, lots of rain, and lush vegetation. These areas are home to many different plants and animals, including colorful birds, big cats, and exotic fruits. The tropics are known for their beautiful beaches, dense rainforests, and vibrant cultures.
The Tropic of Cancer
The Tropic of Cancer is an imaginary line located at approximately 23.5 degrees north of the Equator. The Tropic of Cancer passes through several countries, including Mexico, the Bahamas, Saudi Arabia, India, and China.
In India ,Tropic of Cancer passes through the states of – Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram.
The Tropic of Capricorn
The Tropic of Capricorn is an imaginary line situated at approximately 23.5 degrees south of the Equator. The Tropic of Capricorn passes through countries such as Brazil, Australia, South Africa, and Chile.
History of International Day of the Tropics
The International Day of the Tropics is a United Nations observance that was established in 2016. It is celebrated on June 29 each year to raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by tropical areas, the far-reaching implications of issues affecting the world’s tropical zone, and the need to raise awareness of the important role that countries in the tropics will play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
- The date of June 29 was chosen to mark the anniversary of the inaugural “State of the Tropics Report,” which was launched in 2014 by Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi from Myanmar (Burma).
- Marking the anniversary of the report’s launch the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/70/267 in 2016, which declared that 29 June of each year is to be observed as the International Day of the Tropics.
- The report provides a unique perspective on this rapidly growing region, highlighting its rich biodiversity, its importance to global food security, and its vulnerability to climate change.
Significance of International Day of the Tropics
The International Day of the Tropics is observed annually on June 29 to raise awareness of the unique challenges and opportunities that tropical areas face.
- The tropics are home to about half of the world’s population and contain some of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth.
- However, they are also facing a number of serious challenges, including climate change, deforestation, and urbanization.
- The International Day of the Tropics is an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of the tropics and to raise awareness of the challenges they face.
- It is also an opportunity to highlight the important role that tropical countries play in achieving sustainable development.
Some of the specific goals of the International Day of the Tropics include
- Raising awareness of the unique challenges and opportunities that tropical areas face
- Highlighting the importance of sustainable development in the tropics
- Promoting cooperation between tropical countries and other stakeholders
- Supporting the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals in the tropics
Challenges
- Climate change is a major threat to tropical countries, as it is causing more extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods.
- Deforestation is another major challenge, as it is destroying tropical rainforests, which are home to a vast array of plant and animal species.
- Urbanization is also a challenge, as it is putting pressure on resources in tropical cities.
Opportunities
- Tropical countries have a wealth of natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals.
- They also have a large and growing population, which provides a potential market for goods and services.
- Tropical countries are also home to some of the most diverse cultures on Earth.
- 3 August Current Affairs 2023 in English
- MoU Between Subroto Mukerjee Sports and Education Society and All India Football Federation (AIFF) to Promote Football at Grassroot Level
- Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Delivers Keynote Address at the 13th Indian Organ Donation Day ceremony
- Education Ministry Forms Expert Panel on Anti-Discrimination in Higher Education
- Concerns Arise Over Cheetah Deaths at Kuno National Park
