World Wildlife Day 2026
World Wildlife Day 2026 poster.
Celebrating Medicinal and Aromatic Plants — Conserving Health, Heritage, and Livelihoods
Every year on March 3, the world marks World Wildlife Day, a United Nations-recognized global observance dedicated to celebrating the incredible diversity of wild animals and plants — and to galvanizing action to protect them. Established in 2013, this day honors the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and highlights the deep connections between wildlife, people, and planetary health.
In 2026, the official theme is:
“Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.”
This theme shines a spotlight on medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) — vital components of ecosystems and human health that are often overlooked in wildlife conversations. From traditional healing practices to ingredients in modern medicines, cosmetics, and foods, MAPs support cultural heritage, economic livelihoods, and biodiversity around the world. Yet many species are threatened by habitat loss, overharvesting, and illegal trade.
Why Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Matter
Medicinal and aromatic plants are more than botanical resources — they are threads woven deeply into the fabric of human well-being:
Health & Healing: Many communities — particularly in developing regions — rely on MAPs for primary healthcare. Some estimates suggest that 70–95% of people depend on traditional plant-based remedies.
Cultural Heritage: MAPs embody centuries of Indigenous and local knowledge about nature, healing, and stewardship.
Economic Livelihoods: Tens of thousands of plant species are harvested and traded globally, supporting farmers, harvesters, and small businesses.
Biodiversity & Ecosystems: These plants are key to healthy habitats that sustain wildlife, pollinators, and ecological functions that benefit us all.
Despite their importance, many MAP species are now threatened — making sustainable conservation not just an environmental priority, but a social and economic one as well.
Building Bridges Between People and Nature
World Wildlife Day 2026 calls on governments, conservation organizations, businesses, and individuals to:
Celebrate efforts to sustainably manage and protect MAPs through storytelling, art, and public engagement.
Share knowledge and experiences on balancing use with conservation, especially by lifting up Indigenous and local voices.
Encourage research, innovation, and partnership that support sustainable livelihoods while safeguarding plant biodiversity.
From youth art contests to film showcases, global partners are already mobilizing creative ways to spread awareness and inspire action around this critical theme.
Your Call to Action: Be a Champion for Wildlife and People
This World Wildlife Day, take action that matters:
Learn and Share
Explore the value of medicinal and aromatic plants in your community and around the world. Share stories, photos, and insights on social media using #WorldWildlifeDay and #WWD2026 to raise awareness.Support Sustainable Use
Whether you’re a consumer, retailer, or business leader, choose products and partners that prioritize sustainable harvesting and fair-trade practices for plant-based resources.Partner Locally
Connect with local conservation groups, botanical gardens, Indigenous organizations, and community programs to support education and stewardship of plant biodiversity.Invest in Conservation Solutions
If you’re part of an organization or enterprise, consider investing in projects or initiatives that protect wild plant species and the habitats they share with wildlife.
World Wildlife Day 2026 is a celebration of the interwoven beauty and utility of life on Earth — reminding us that when we protect plants, we protect ecosystems, cultures, and people too. Let’s honor this theme by taking thoughtful, lasting action for health, heritage, and livelihoods today and every day.