International Day of Argania 2024 – May 10

The United Nations (UN) International Day of Argania is annually observed across the globe on 10th May to create awareness and promote the major role of the Argan tree (Argania spinosa), a native species of the sub-Saharan region of Morocco, which grows in arid and semiarid areas.

• The day underscores Morocco’s dedication to elevating the Argan tree as a symbol of heritage and a source of resilient and sustainable development.
• 10th May 2024 marks the observance of the 4th International Day of Argania.

Theme:

The theme of International Day of Argania 2024 is “The Argan Tree facing the challenges of climate change”.

• The 2024 theme emphasises the critical role of the Argania tree in confronting environmental challenges and its significance in fostering sustainable development and environmental conservation, particularly in the face of climate change impacts.

Background:

i.In 2021, the United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) adopted a resolution A/RES/75/262 and proclaimed the 10 May of every year as the International Day of Argania.

ii.The resolution, submitted by Morocco, was co-sponsored by 113 UN member states and adopted by consensus.

iii.The 1st ever International Day of Argania was observed on 10th May 2021.

Objectives:

i.Promote a greater understanding of the argan ecosystem and species response to climate change and its potential contributions to mitigation and adaptation.

ii.Advocate for preserving the Argan tree as a fundamental element in cultivating sustainable practices, ensuring the well-being of the environment and the communities reliant on it.

About Argan Tree:

i.It is a species of tree endemic to the calcareous semi-desert Sous valley of southwestern Morocco and the Algerian region of Tindouf in the western Mediterranean region.

• It is the defining species of a woodland ecosystem, also known as Arganeraie.

ii.It is resilient to water scarcity and poor soils, it provides a vital habitat for endemic flora and supports diverse wildlife.

iii.Argan trees serve as a sustainable source of fuelwood and yield the highly prized argan oil, with applications in medicine, culinary arts, and cosmetics.

iv.The argan tree, a multipurpose resource, supports various aspects of sustainable development.

Note: Argan oil is one of the rarest oils in the world and is hailed as the “liquid gold” of Morocco. It takes about 150 kg of fruit to produce 3 liters of argan oil.