World Animal Day, turns a hundred years of history. What began as an initiative to raise awareness about the importance of respecting and protecting animals has become a global movement, an animal protection symbol and environmental defense.
From the alteration of habitats to changes in migratory patterns and the risk of extinction, global warming is altering animal life forms and, in some cases, irreversible.
The increase in temperatures and changes in rain patterns are transforming, accelerated, natural habitats. According to numerous studies, the fusion of the poles is reducing the extension of the ice layers, which is seriously affecting their ecosystems. In the case of mountainous and forest regions, many species must move to higher areas or look for new areas where conditions are more suitable for survival.
Climate change is also altering the vital cycles of birds and marine fauna. Many migratory birds are modifying their routes or advancing their trips to adapt to new climatic conditions. Variations in temperature can influence the reproduction of many species. To this we must add that, the waves of extreme heat and the new generation fires are raising animal mortality.
High temperatures also favor the expansion of diseases and parasites that were not previously present in certain regions. In addition, some invasive species take advantage of temperature changes to colonize new territories, displacing native species and altering ecosystems.
The combination of all these factors is accelerating the risk of extinction for many species. The last report of the United Nations Organization highlights that world biodiversity is in decline at an unprecedented rate. It is estimated that about one million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction, many of them in the coming decades, if urgent measures are not taken.
World Animal Day
The history of World Animal Day begins in 1925, when Heinrich Zimmermann proposed to dedicate a special day to animal protection, organizing in Berlin, on March 24, 1925, a first meeting that laid the foundations for an annual date dedicated exclusively to animals.
In 1929, the celebration officially moved to October 4, coinciding with the feast of San Francisco de Asís. Finally, in 1931, during an International Congress of Animal Protection in Florence, World Animal Day was instituted as a global commemoration.
A century of history
During these 100 years, the animal cause has evolved exponentially. What began as a campaign focused on the protection of domestic animals, was soon expanded to all species, from farm animals to wildlife and marine.
Throughout the century, the change has been remarkable. Animal well -being is today an important issue in the international agenda, promoting laws and educational campaigns worldwide. One of the greatest achievements has been the promulgation of animal protection laws. Many countries have adopted regulations that prohibit abuse, regulate the use of animals in shows and experimentation and promote the conservation of threatened species.
Education has played a crucial role in social transformation. The new generations grow with greater sensitivity towards animal abuse. Science and technology have also helped in the task. The use of satellite monitoring of endangered species, artificial intelligence to identify illegal traffic patterns and digital platforms have expanded the scope and efficacy in species protection.
Many challenges ahead
However, beyond the devastating consequences generated by climate change, the challenges remain many and of a very diverse nature. Species traffic, habitat destruction and industrial exploitation continue to threaten animal life. Pastive hunting and illegal trade make real havoc, while the loss of biodiversity faces an unprecedented crisis. Without forgetting that abandonment and abuse are still a reality in much of the planet.
Naturgy volunteers
In this context of greater environmental awareness and protection of ecosystems and species, Naturgy volunteers have recently participated in an environmental day in Carral, next to the Brexa River, (A Coruña) to rehabilitate the ponds used as a breeding place of several protected species of amphibians. The group, formed by Naturgy employees and their relatives and accompanied by specialized monitors, conditioned the microhabitats that will serve as a refuge and reproduction point to amphibians and other animals, such as micromamiferous and invertebrate.
The lack of ponds is one of the biggest challenges for the reproduction of amphibians, especially in urban areas, where threats such as road abuses are also faced. These ponds are not only vital for reproduction, but also benefit other organisms, such as dragonflies and other aquatic invertebrates, which are key indicators of water quality and essential for ecosystems.