World Rainforest Day 2024 theme is The Year of Action. (Image: Shutterstock)
Celebrated every year on June 22, World Rainforest Day reminds us of the importance of protecting these valuable ecosystems for future generations.
Rainforests are more than just dense jungles; they are essential ecosystems full of diverse life and crucial for regulating the Earth’s climate. Celebrated every year on June 22, World Rainforest Day reminds us of the importance of protecting these valuable ecosystems for future generations. Take a look at this year’s theme, history, significance, and quotes below:
World Rainforest Day: Theme
This year’s theme is — “The Year of Action.”
World Rainforest Day: History
In 2017, the Rainforest Partnership, a non-profit environmental organisation based in Texas, introduced World Rainforest Day to create awareness about the importance of rainforests and their role in supporting the planet. It has gained support from over 70 global partners, including environmental advocates and media outlets. The day is also endorsed by the United Nations Economic and Social Council.
World Rainforest Day: Significance
It plays an important role in maintaining the health of the planet and all its inhabitants.
This day also raises awareness about the crucial role of rainforests in sustaining biodiversity, regulating climate, and producing oxygen necessary for life.
Rainforests constitute 50% of the world’s plant and animal species, offering essential resources for communities worldwide.
Forests play an essential role in regulating the Earth’s climate by absorbing about 30% of global carbon emissions.
World Rainforest Day: Quotes
- “The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.” – John Muir
- “My favourite places on earth are the wild waterways where the forest opens its arms and a silver curve of river folds the traveller into its embrace.” – Rory MacLean
- “At first, I thought I was fighting to save rubber trees, then I thought I was fighting to save the Amazon rainforest. Now I realize I am fighting for humanity.” – Chico Mendes, Brazilian Environmentalist
- “Forests are the world’s air conditioning system, the lungs of the planet, and we are on the verge of switching it off.” – King Charles
- Destroying rainforests for economic gain is like burning a Renaissance painting to cook a meal. – EO Wilson
- The answer is simple. If we lose the world’s forests, we lose the fight against climate change. Rainforests are our Earth’s greatest utility – our planet’s lungs, thermostat and air-conditioning system. —Michael Somare, Former Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea
- “The forests are the lungs of our land, purifying the air and giving fresh strength to our people.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt.
