Biological diversity, also known as biodiversity, is defined as the variety of all living things; the different plants, animals and microorganisms, the genetic information they contain and the ecosystems they form. The diversity of life we see today is the result of 4.5 billion years of evolution, shaped by natural processes and interactions between humans and the environment. But these many years of our very nature is in crisis now. Let's investigate the details more thoroughly.
When biodiversity has a problem, humanity has a problem
Biodiversity is the source of the essential resources and ecosystem services that sustain human life, including food production, purification of air and water, and climate stabilization. Biological diversity resources are the pillars upon which we build civilizations. Fish provide 20% of animal protein to about 3 billion people. Over 80% of the human diet is provided by plants. As many as 80% of people living in rural areas in developing countries rely on traditional plant‐based medicines for basic healthcare.
Currently, there are more than 157,100 species on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List, with more than 44,000 species threatened with extinction, including 41% of amphibians, 37% of sharks and rays, 36% of reef building corals, 34% of conifers, 26% of mammals and 12% of birds. Irreplaceable ecosystems like parts of the Amazon rainforest are turning from carbon sinks into carbon sources due to deforestation. And 85 % of wetlands, such as salt marshes and mangrove swamps which absorb large amounts of carbon, have disappeared.
The loss of biodiversity threatens all, including our health. It has been proven that biodiversity loss could expand zoonoses (diseases transmitted from animals to humans) while, on the other hand, if we keep biodiversity intact, it offers excellent tools to fight against pandemics like those caused by coronaviruses. Now everything is in our hands, whether we keep biodiversity intact or not?
Be part of the Plan
While there is a growing recognition that biological diversity is a global asset of tremendous value to future generations, the number of species is being significantly reduced by certain human activities. As the global community is called to re-examine our relationship to the natural world, one thing is certain: despite all our technological advances we are completely dependent on healthy and vibrant ecosystems for our water, food, medicines, clothes, fuel, shelter and energy, just to name a few. This involves respecting, protecting, and repairing our biological wealth.
Today on this International Day for Biological Diversity, "Be part of the Plan," calls on everyone to support the Biodiversity Plan. Everyone can be part of the plan. Show your support on this day by making little changes in your lifestyle to save millions of lives.
Do your part to save our Biodiversity
The pollution we generate significantly impacts our ecosystem. Greenhouse gas emissions per person vary widely by country. In the United States, per capita emissions are more than twice the global average of 6.5 tons of CO2 equivalent, while in India they are less than half this average. Globally, the wealthiest 10% of the population are responsible for nearly half of all emissions. Here are some actions you can take to reduce your environmental impact to save our Biodiversity.
1.Plant native species
If you have a garden or a few plants, check for native species. Native plants support local insects, worms and birds. Even one tree or shrub can help in saving our biodiversity. Avoid using insecticides and chemicals which are life threats for a few species.
2.Clean up your environment
Humans, animals and plants all suffer from land and water contaminated by improperly discarded garbage. Use only what you need and dispose waste properly. Educate others and join local clean-ups. Annually, 2 billion tons of trash are thrown out, with a third damaging the environment by choking water supplies and poisoning soil. Thus, harming many lives of Eco-system.
3.Reduce, reuse, repair and recycle
Electronics, clothes, and plastics cause emissions from production to delivery. To protect the climate, buy less, shop second-hand, and repair items. Plastics generated 1.8 billion metric tons of emissions in 2019, but less than 10% is recycled. Reducing new purchases can lower your carbon footprint, as each kilogram of textiles produces 17 kilograms of CO2e.
4.Save energy at home
Improve home energy efficiency with better insulation or replace an oil or gas furnace with an electric heat pump to cut up to 900 kg of CO2e annually. Renewable sources of energy, such as wind or solar, can reduce your carbon footprint by up to 1.5 tons of CO2e per year.
5.Make your money count
Every purchase impacts the planet. Choose products from sustainable brands like Tinykiddo that use resources responsibly and cut emissions. Ensure your investments support environmentally conscious businesses to reduce your carbon footprint. Speak up and get others to join in taking action. It's one of the quickest and most effective ways to make a difference. Talk to your neighbors, colleagues, friends, and family. Let business owners know you support bold changes – from plastics-free products and packaging to zero-emissions vehicles.
Preserving biodiversity is not just an environmental issue but a fundamental necessity for sustaining human life and health. Our actions today determine the future of our planet. By making conscious choices, reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting sustainable practices, we can all contribute to protecting the intricate web of life that sustains us. Let’s unite in our efforts to safeguard biodiversity, ensuring a thriving planet for generations to come.
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