On June 29, the UN proclaimed International Day of the Tropics was observed with the theme "The Digital Divide in the Tropics". According to the UN, The international Day of the Tropics is meant to raise awareness to the specific challenges faced by tropical areas, the far-reaching implications of the issues affecting the world’s tropical zone and the need, at all levels.
The observance also aims to promote tropical regions on Earth, raise awareness about the conservation strategies, and celebrate the remarkable diversity that abounds the planet, states the UN on its website.
It may be mentioned here that the 'Tropics refer to regions between the Tropic of Cancer (23.4° north of the Equator) and Tropic of Capricorn (23.4° south of the Equator). These are also known as torrid zones which are basically sub-polar points where the Sun is directly overhead' as stated in the UN website.
Tropical regions comprises of the following salient feature as per the UN:
-Has 98% world’s mangrove forests, and around 99% mangrove species
-Marked by maxim biodiversity, but its loss is also greater there
-Has around 54% of renewable water resources
-Accounts for 36% of the landmass
-Harbours almost one third of the planet’s population
UN warns, "Since 1980, there has been a steep decrease in mangrove forest across the tropical regions. The fact is biodiversity is maximum in the Tropics, and its loss is also greater there. The flora and fauna are on the verge of facing extinction in these regions. The tropical regions are subjected to myriad, demanding situations that need immediate assistance to ensure sustainable development."
The world community has urged 'to formulate strategies to protect the tropic' as well as 'sensitise and encourage to take cognizance of the challenges encountered in tropical regions.'
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