May 22nd sees the observation of International Day for Biological Diversity, as it has every year this century, recognising the adoption, by 196 countries, of the Convention on Biological Diversity – an international legal instrument for "the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilisation of genetic resources." (source United Nations).
The theme chosen for 2017 is Biodiversity and Sustainable Tourism, highlighting the the important contribution that sustainable tourism can make "both to economic growth and to the conservation of biodiversity." 2017 has also been designated International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development.
Events to celebrate Biological Diversity are taking place around the world, including some that are being co-ordinated by international organisations. See the Convention on Biological Diversity website for more information.