“Be part of the Plan”, is this year’s theme for the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB). It is a call to action for all of the world to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity by supporting the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, also referred to as the Biodiversity Plan.
The Biodiversity Plan offers opportunities for cooperation and partnerships among diverse groups including governments, indigenous peoples, local communities, non-governmental organisations, lawmakers, businesses, and individuals.
What is biodiversity?
Biodiversity, the variety of life on Earth, encompasses the myriad of species, genes, ecosystems, and ecological processes that make up our planet’s intricate web of life. It is the foundation of the ecosystem that supports all life, survival and well-being. Despite its critical importance, biodiversity is under threat due to human activities. Understanding and protecting biodiversity is not just a matter of preserving nature for its own sake but is crucial for the health, stability, and resilience of ecosystems that we all depend on.
Ecosystems and Ecological Balance
Biodiversity plays a fundamental role in maintaining ecological balance. Each species, no matter how small, has a role in the ecosystem, contributing to processes such as pollination, nutrient cycling, soil formation, and water purification. For instance, bees and other pollinators are essential for the reproduction of many plants, including crops that constitute a significant part of the human diet. Healthy ecosystems regulate climate, control floods, and purify water, providing essential services that support life on Earth.
Resilience to Environmental Changes
Ecosystems with high biodiversity are generally more resilient to environmental changes and disturbances. A diverse ecosystem can better withstand and recover from events such as extreme weather, disease outbreaks, and human impacts. This resilience is crucial in the context of climate change, where rapid changes in temperature and weather patterns can severely disrupt ecosystems. Biodiversity acts as a buffer, helping ecosystems adapt and maintain their functions under changing conditions.
Threats to Biodiversity
Despite its importance, biodiversity is facing unprecedented threats. Habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, overexploitation, and invasive species are driving a rapid decline in biodiversity worldwide. The loss of biodiversity not only undermines ecosystem services but also jeopardises human health and livelihoods. It is estimated that species are being lost at a rate 1,000 to 10,000 times higher than the natural extinction rate.
Conservation Efforts
Protecting biodiversity requires concerted global efforts. Conservation strategies include establishing protected areas, restoring degraded ecosystems, and promoting sustainable practices. International agreements, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity, aim to coordinate global actions to preserve biodiversity. Additionally, raising public awareness and engaging local communities in conservation efforts are crucial for ensuring the long-term success of these initiatives.
Be part of the plan
“Be part of the Plan” reminds us, that as stewards of the planet, it is our responsibility to preserve its precious diversity for future generations of all life on earth. The time to act is now, before the tapestry of life unravels beyond repair.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of steps you can take as an individual to be part of the Plan:
- Moderate your consumption of meat and fish to reduce pressure on natural resources.
- Consume fruit and vegetables in season and try to shop locally to reduce transport emissions.
- Reduce waste by shopping sensibly.
- Compost food waste.
- Repair, re-use and recycle anything from home appliances to clothing.
- Learn how your use of chemicals (example: chemicals contained in detergents, pesticides and cosmetics) affects biodiversity and use this knowledge to adopt environmentally friendly alternatives.
- Choose fresh produce from local markets and support bio-products. Look out for products with fair trade certifications or eco-friendly labels when making purchasing decisions.
- Enquire about corporate social responsibility policies before buying a company’s products.
- Support and promote ecological tourism. Your next adventure does not have to leave a giant carbon footprint: consider nearby destinations.
- Avoid activities that disturb fauna and flora.
- Explain the value of biodiversity to those around you.
- Engage with political officials from your region and/or with local representatives (example: the Member of Parliament for your region and/or the mayor of your city) and request information on what your local authorities are doing to implement the Biodiversity Plan.
