The International Day for Biological Diversity(IBD) is celebrated every year on May 22. It is a special day to learn about and appreciate the variety of life on Earth. The United Nations (UN) created this day to help everyone understand how important biodiversity is for our world. Biodiversity includes all the different kinds of plants, animals, and microorganisms, as well as the different ecosystems, like forests, lakes, and deserts, where they live.
Why Biodiversity Matters
We depend on healthy ecosystems for many things:
- Water: Clean water comes from healthy rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
- Food: Many of our foods come from plants and animals.
- Medicines: Many medicines are made from plants.
- Clothes: Natural fibers like cotton and wool come from plants and animals.
- Fuel and Energy: We get fuel from plants and the sun’s energy from plants through photosynthesis.
- Shelter: We build homes from wood and other natural materials.
If we lose biodiversity, we lose these essential resources. For example, fish provide 20% of the animal protein that people eat, especially in many developing countries. Plants make up over 80% of the food we eat. Also, many people rely on plants for medicine, especially in rural areas.
The Biodiversity Plan
In December 2022, the world came together to create a new plan to protect nature. This plan is called the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, or simply, The Biodiversity Plan. The goal of this plan is to stop the loss of nature and start to restore it by the year 2050.
What is the theme of May 22, 2024(IDB)? Be Part of the Plan
Join the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22! This year’s theme is “Be Part of the Plan. This theme is a call to action. It encourages everyone—governments, communities, businesses, and individuals—to do their part in protecting biodiversity. By working together, we can achieve the goals set out in The Biodiversity Plan.
Ways You Can Join the Plan
There are many ways you can help support biodiversity:
- Learn About Biodiversity: The more you know, the more you can help. Read books, watch documentaries, and stay informed about the latest news in biodiversity.
- Support Conservation Efforts: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that work to protect natural habitats and endangered species.
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Be mindful of your waste and try to reduce your use of plastic and other harmful materials.
- Plant Native Species: Planting trees and plants that are native to your area can help local wildlife.
- Avoid Harmful Chemicals: Use eco-friendly products that do not harm the environment.
- Spread the Word: Share what you learn with friends and family. Encourage them to be part of the plan too.
The Role of the Convention on Biological Diversity
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is a key international agreement for sustainable development. The CBD’s main goal is to protect biodiversity and ensure it is used sustainably. Every year, the CBD hosts meetings to discuss how to best protect biodiversity. The next big meeting, called COP 16, will be held in Colombia from October 21 to November 1, 2024.
Background of the International Day for Biological Diversity
The International Day for Biological Diversity was first created by the UN in 1993. Originally, it was celebrated on December 29. However, in 2000, the date was changed to May 22 to commemorate the adoption of the CBD on May 22, 1992.
Past slogans for Biological Diversity Day?
Each year, the International Day for Biological Diversity has a different theme to highlight various aspects of biodiversity. Here are some past themes:
- 2023: From agreement to action: Build back biodiversity(previous year theme)
- 2022: Building a shared future for all life
- 2021: We’re part of the solution
- 2020: Our solutions are in nature
- 2019: Our Biodiversity, Our Food, Our Health
Biodiversity Loss: A Threat to Our Future
When we lose biodiversity, we face many risks. For example, losing plant and animal species can lead to fewer resources for food and medicine. It can also increase the spread of diseases. Scientists have found that diseases that spread from animals to humans, like COVID-19, can become more common when we destroy natural habitats.
The Importance of Public Education
Educating people about the importance of biodiversity is crucial. When people understand how biodiversity affects their lives, they are more likely to take action to protect it. This is why the International Day for Biological Diversity is so important. It helps raise awareness and encourages people to take steps to protect our planet.
The International Day for Biological Diversity is a reminder of how important it is to protect the variety of life on Earth. By being part of the plan and taking action, we can help stop the loss of biodiversity and ensure a healthy planet for future generations. Remember, everyone has a role to play in protecting our natural world. So, let’s all be part of the plan!
For more information and resources, visit the official website: Convention on Biological Diversity. United, we can protect our planet and secure a vibrant future for all living beings.
Attractive section of content. I just stumbled upon your weblog and in accession capital to assert that I acquire actually enjoyed account your blog posts. Any way I’ll be subscribing to your feeds and even I achievement you access consistently fast.