Endangered Species Day (15 May) & International Day of Light (16 May)

What:

• Endangered Species Day (third Friday of May; in 2026 observed on 15 May) theme focused on wildlife comeback stories and the Endangered Species Act (USA).

• International Day of Light (16 May) 2026 theme: “Light for a Sustainable Future.”

Significance:

• Biodiversity: Promotes conservation, awareness of endangered species and legislative successes (ESA).

• Science & sustainability: Highlights role of light‑based technologies in sustainable development.

UPSC relevance: Environment & biodiversity, science & technology for sustainable development.