The United Nations (UN) observes June 29 as the International Day of the Tropics every year to highlight the ecological and cultural importance of tropical regions.
- The day raises awareness about critical issues such as climate change, deforestation, poverty, and urbanization while celebrating the rich biodiversity of the tropics.
Background:
i.Acknowledging the importance of addressing tropical challenges, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted resolution A/RES/70/267 on 14 June 2016, declaring 29 June as the International Day of the Tropics.
ii.The first official observance was held on 29 June 2017, and since then, the day has been commemorated annually to spotlight both the achievements and ongoing issues faced by tropical regions.
Why June 29 ?
i.The State of the Tropics Report, first launched on June 29, 2014, was a collaborative effort by twelve leading tropical research institutions. The report provided an in-depth analysis of the challenges and opportunities in tropical regions.
ii.The Report was launched on 29 June 2014 by Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi in Yangon, Myanmar.
iii.The second edition of the report, published in 2020, further emphasised the importance of continual monitoring and sustained support for the development of tropical regions.
Note: Aung San Suu Kyi received the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her non-violent efforts to promote democracy and human rights in 1991.
About Tropics:
i.The tropics refer to the zone located between the Tropic of Cancer (23.5° N) and the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5° S)Â
ii.This region enjoys consistently warm temperatures (average monthly temperature above 18 °C) with minimal seasonal variation, supporting vibrant rainforest, savanna, monsoon, and dry forest ecosystems.
iii.It spans parts of South and Central America, sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, northern Australia, and many Pacific Islands, covering nearly 40% of the Earth’s land area.
Significance:
i.These regions are home to over 80% of global biodiversity, including 95% of mangrove forests and nearly all coral reefs
ii.They manage 54% of the world’s renewable water resources, underpinning global climate regulation, food security, and ecosystem services.
Challenges Faced by Tropical Regions:
Despite their ecological significance, tropical areas encounter severe challenges:
- Climate Change: Rising temperatures and extreme weather threaten ecosystems.
- Deforestation: Rapid loss of forests due to agriculture and urbanization.
- Poverty & Food Security: Higher malnutrition rates compared to non-tropical regions.
- Urbanization: Over 60% of the global urban slum population resides in the tropics.
- Population Growth: By 2050, the tropics will house most of the world’s population and two-thirds of its children.
