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What is biodiversity? Why do we need to protect it?
Variety and variability of life on earth is termed as biodiversity. Every single species has an important role to play as it boosts the ecosystem productivity. Along with this, it provides us with the “functioning ecosystem” that supplies our means of survival (oxygen, water and air).
Climate change and over-exploitation of natural resources are the foremost reasons for the degradation of biodiversity therefore we need to protect our biodiversity for it threatens our survival means including food supplies and recreation sites for tourism also because 3 million people depend on coastal and marine biodiversity for their livelihoods.
What is this day all about?
International Day for Biological Diversity is observed every year on 22nd May. The aim is to educate people about biodiversity issues and to spread awareness about the same. It is an observance and not a public holiday.
How and When did it start?
In the year 2000, the UN General Assembly adopted 22nd May as IDB to commemorate the adoption of the text of the Convention on 22 May 1992 by the Nairobi Final Act of the Conference for the Adoption of the Agreed Text of the Convention on Biological Diversity.
What is the theme for the year 2020?
The theme for this year is “Our solutions are in nature”.
What do people do on this day?
- Exhibitions and seminars are organized. Biodiversity issues are discussed at such events.
- Numerous webinars and local programs are organized to address people and encourage them to preserve natural species and habitats.
- Various competitions are organized and artwork of people which are related to the theme are promoted to spread awareness about the environmental issues and to educate the mass.
Steps to preserve our biodiversity
- Promote indigenous biodiversity for food and nutrition.
- Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.
- Avoid using articles made up of plastic and encourage the process of composting.
- Artificial fertilizers and pesticides should not be used.
In our next blog, we will be discussing other current issues of national and international importance. If you don’t want to miss out on the next important blog, click here!
