The month of May holds both awareness days for Endangered Species Day (20th) and Turtle Conservation Day (23rd). Might it be a coincidence? I don’t think so!
These days that promote awareness help put a stop to the negative impact of human activities, such as habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change, which has significantly contributed to the decline in global biodiversity.
Good change needs to happen, below are 3 major ways on how to make a difference. The key pointers include:
But first, let’s get to know these days:
Endangered Species Awareness Day (May 20) is an annual event in May that sheds light on the plight of endangered species worldwide. On this day, concerned individuals, various conservation organizations and animal enthusiasts organize events, workshops, and awareness campaigns to encourage individuals to take action and actively participate in safeguarding magnificent creatures that are endangered, especially turtles, hence Turtle Awareness Day (May 20). Perhaps, this is given another day because they are among one of the world's most vulnerable creatures and there needs to be an additional emphasis on their need for help of preservation. Turtle Awareness Day aims to educate the public about the challenges faced by turtles and the urgent need to protect their habitats. These remarkable reptiles face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution as well, illegal trade, and climate change. By highlighting the importance of turtle conservation, we give honor to them especially as they are revered for their ancient existence and gentle demeanor.
May is clearly a reminder that we, Australians, are supposed to care for our environment and take care of it. The emotion must be complemented by an action for change to happen. If anything, both these events operate as helpful reminders for us to evaluate our behavior and make ethical decisions.
Change can start in Australia
Australians need to understand how important it is to make eco-friendly changes in today's world of negative environmental issues if they hope for a better tomorrow.
Australians can help protect the country and in whole, planet Earth just by starting with small but life-long adjustments to their everyday life. Customizing their routines, and being intentional such as:
1. Intentionally choosing quality goods and products that are ethically manufactured, sustainably sourced, and devoid of toxic chemicals are ways to support sustainable products and practices. In the same light, refrain from single-use items like using plastic straws, and other disposables.
2. Intentionally taking part in conservation initiatives, be it local, regional or even worldwide (if given the opportunity). Initiatives such as:
- Actively aiding in the preservation of wildlife by offering time to clean up beaches by volunteering;
- Making a donation to causes that help save the environment;
- Raising awareness about the harm done to our planet and its species when rubbish is thrown carelessly or on purpose outside of trash cans;
- Raising a unified voice for change by pushing for stricter environmental laws and regulations.
Clean air is one great way to preserve endangered species including turtles. If we don’t make the small changes, it’s always the small actions that build up to become the big monsters of the Earth, so early on, we need to make necessary changes for a better tomorrow.
All these go a long way. It’s always the best when we encourage others to follow suit and create a more sustainable lifestyle. Let us use these awareness days and the days onwards, as catalysts for change, encouraging individuals to make small yet impactful modifications in their lifestyles, ultimately creating a world that is safer and more nurturing for endangered species like turtles.
