How to get involved in UN World Wildlife Day 2026 – CITES

The countdown is officially on: in just one month, the world will come together to celebrate United Nations World Wildlife Day 2026 and the incredible diversity of wild fauna and flora that sustains our planet.

This year’s theme, “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods,” shines a spotlight on the extraordinary plants that have supported human well‑being for centuries. It also invites us all to learn from the communities, experts and knowledge‑holders working to conserve these species and the cultural traditions surrounding them.

As the world approaches March 3, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) says there are several ways to take part in this year’s global celebration:

1. Organise and register your satellite celebration activity or event on the World Wildlife Day website and share with the world how you plan to celebrate in your community.
2. Download, use and share the Official WWD2026 Poster, designed by the Official Poster Contest Winner, Ms. Hannah Payet, and promote the theme at your event, with a virtual background, or on social media.
3. Submit your film to the Jackson Wild Film Showcase, deadline extended to February 11, to share your powerful stories about wildlife and the people conserving it.
4. Use the WWD2026 Social Media Kit, which contains ready-made social media assets to support your outreach leading up to or on the Day.
5. Join the United Nations Celebration Event, to be livestreamed on the World Wildlife Day YouTube channel on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

“As the global celebration draws near, World Wildlife Day 2026 will invite us to rediscover the richness of medicinal and aromatic plants – plants that represent cultural heritage, and support livelihoods – hold immense value for human and planetary health. The celebration will recognise the traditional knowledge behind their use, the communities conserving these species, and our shared responsibility to ensure their conservation for future generations,” submitted CITES.