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International Day of Argania illuminates the critical role of the argan tree every May 10. Established by UNESCO in 2021, this day raises global awareness about the tree’s ecological significance and cultural heritage. Discover ways to support conservation efforts and learn about sustainable argan product sourcing.
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History of International Day of Argania
Argan trees are trees located in the southwestern region of Morocco. These plants can overcome a great amount of heat and dryness and can live up to 200 years. Their height can vary between 26 and 33 feet and the circumference can reach 230 feet. Argan trees have lots of branches, from which hang argan fruit. The fruit surrounds the seeds that contain a lot of oil. This oil is used in the beauty industry as the base for many moisturizers.
Because of its economical advantages, a lot of farmers and cattle ranchers have been found around the Argania region exploiting the argan trees to make firewood and overfeeding goats and camels with the argan fruit. These exploited trees were never replanted and UNESCO declared an environmental crisis, which led to the creation of the Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve. This area is under the jurisdiction of UNESCO. This same organization has posted know-how on dealing with argan oil production and other practices related to the argan tree.
Since then, the region has thrived, and locals have been able to produce quality products from the sustainable argan tree business. In 2021, UNESCO announced the creation of the International Day of Argania, to be observed every year on May 10, to promote and secure the development of argan trees in Morocco.
International Day of Argania timeline
UNESCO defines the southwestern region of Morocco where the argan trees grow as a biosphere reserve.
“Argan, practices, and know-how concerning the argan tree” is inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity at UNESCO.
The U.N. and many countries adopt the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
UNESCO sets May 10 as the International Day of Argania, to be celebrated annually.
International Day of Argania FAQs
When is International Day of Argania?
In 2027, International Day of Argania falls on Monday, May 10. It serves as a global reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to protect and sustainably manage argan forests.
How many argan trees are left?
Conservation efforts are vital as the argan forest, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is a fragile ecosystem. The exact number of individual trees is hard to quantify, but their habitat is shrinking, underscoring the need for continued protection and reforestation.
What is argan oil used for?
Beyond its well-known uses in beauty and cooking, argan oil also holds significant cultural importance in Morocco, where it has been a staple for centuries. Its rich nutrient profile makes it a valuable ingredient in traditional medicine and local diets.
Where do argan trees grow?
While primarily found in Morocco, small populations of argan trees also exist in Algeria. The trees thrive in arid and semi-arid conditions, playing a crucial role in preventing desertification and maintaining ecological balance in these regions.
How to Observe International Day of Argania
Visit the argan region
If you’re able to do so, go see the trees for yourself in the argan region in southwestern Morocco! Not only will their height astound you, but so will their beauty.
Post on social media
Write a post on social media all about the importance of argan trees to the Moroccan people and the preciousness of argan oil! Don’t forget the hashtag #internationaldayofArgania
Draw an argan tree
You can always look up a photo of an argan tree online and try to replicate the image by drawing it on a piece of paper. Show it off to all your friends and family!
5 Interesting Facts About Argan Trees
They are ancient
Argan trees are estimated to have grown on Earth around 80 million years ago!
They are at risk
Farmers and cattle ranchers have been known to exploit argan trees to use as firewood and feed camels and goats, but never plant any other trees back.
Argan oil is a great moisturizer
Did you know that argan oil is used by local women to counter the dryness in their skin caused by the Moroccan heat?
Goats love argan fruit
Tourists visit the argan region every year to watch goats jumping on the tree branches to try and get a bite of argan fruit.
They are tall
Argan trees can reach up to 33 feet in height!
Why International Day of Argania is Important
It raises awareness
It’s so important to raise awareness of how much our planet needs its plants and animals. We should always stay on the lookout for environmental and sustainable actions.
It puts argan trees in the spotlight
When else would we get the chance to talk about argan trees? This day is important because it allows us to focus on this great plant.
It brings us together for a cause
It’s easy for us to feel disconnected from the people around us. But whenever we get together for such an honorable cause, we feel just a little bit happier.
