It’s nearly that time again: On May 9-10 2015 the annually celebrated awareness-raising campaign World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD), organized by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) and the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA), will put a spotlight on conserving both migratory birds and their habitats worldwide. UNEP is one of many organizations supporting the campaign as part of a strong and enduring partnership.

This year’s theme “Energy – make it bird-friendly!” focusses on possible impacts of newly developed and existing energy technologies on migratory birds and their habitats. The campaign poster is available in English, French, Spanish, Italian and German. Translations in many more languages will follow.

Sustainable energy sources which aim to mitigate climate change are expected to have a positive impact on nature. However, collisions and electrocution due to power lines as well as barrier effects from energy infrastructure are causing mortality and displacement for millions of birds every year. In addition, birds face habitat loss and other disturbances from the deployment of hydropower, bio-fuels and the technologies associated with ocean, solar, wind and geothermal energy. Therefore proper planning, design and risk assessment of new energy technology are required to avert serious threats to migratory birds.

People from all over the world can register their activity on the dedicated website. They will receive the campaign package consisting of posters, flyers and postcards upon request. Every type of event ranging from birdwatching to organizing a bird camp or a presentation is welcome and will enrich the campaign.

This year a video contest will be launched to select the WMBD trailer. More information can be found on the new website www.worldmigratorybirdday.org. The campaign is present on all important social media channels and will provide regular updates.

For more information: veronika.lenarz@cms.int

Related links:

• World Migratory Bird Day
• Energy – make it bird-friendly!
• WMBD Flyer English, Spanish, French
• Campaign Poster