International Day for Biological Diversity

Biodiversity is integral to human existence, with more than 80% of human consumption originating from plant-based foods.

UNESCO recognises 785 sites across 142 countries in its World Network of Biosphere Reserves; these help protect over 8 million sq.km. of land and sea.

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Almost 80% of the population in developing nations depends on plant-based medicine as their primary healthcare service provider.

According to global biodiversity studies, more than 1 million species are facing the risk of extinction.

Approximately 3 billion individuals worldwide consume fish as their main animal protein source.

Human interventions have affected ecosystems, with nearly 75% of land and 66% of marine areas having undergone considerable transformations.

The 2030 and 2050 goals are set out in the 23 objectives in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. These include restoring 20% of damaged ecosystems and halving the spread of invasive species.

Loss of biodiversity poses a threat to achieving 80% of the SDGs.

Conservation of nature is not a choice but a necessity, a point the International Day for Biological Diversity seeks to emphasise. In light of the multi-fold challenges it faces, biodiversity can only be safeguarded if there is cooperation on a global scale, and if urgent actions are taken. Further, a liveable future will only be guaranteed if our planet’s resources are tended with love and care

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