International Day for Biological Diversity
Biodiversity is the living fabric of our planet. It underpins human wellbeing in the present and in the future, and its rapid decline threatens nature and people alike. According to the released in 2019 by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) at UNESCO, the main global drivers of biodiversity loss are climate change, invasive species, over-exploitation of natural resources, pollution and urbanization. The Global Report demonstrated the responsibility of human activities in the loss of biodiversity, which amounted to 75% for terrestrial ecosystems. This assessment also indicated that solutions existed and that it was not too late to act.
To halt or reverse this decline it is vital to transform people’s roles, actions and relationships with biodiversity. Many solutions exist: UNESCO’s diverse networks, programmes and partners have observed positive and inspiring seeds of change around the world. UNESCO also accompanies Member States and their people in their efforts to halt biodiversity loss by understanding, appreciating, safeguarding and using biodiversity sustainably.
Now is time to act for biodiversity! The United Nations has proclaimed May 22 to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues.
In response to the many threats posed by climate change to our ecosystems, UNESCO calls on the entire international community to mobilize on this International Day for Biological Diversity to preserve our planet's treasures.
What UNESCO does
Conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity: designated sites
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Resources
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