World Biodiversity Day, 22 May 2008

Uniformity is not nature’s way, diversity is nature’s way
Vandana Shiva

Today biodiversity is being celebrated all round the world: 24 hours dedicated to understanding, recognizing and promoting the importance of protecting other living species, flora or fauna.

May 22 was proclaimed The International Day for Biological Diversity (IBD) by The United Nations General Assembly to increase awareness of biodiversity-related issues, including how pollination and soil biodiversity provide great support for agricultural biodiversity; how biodiversity in agriculture is necessary to support key agro ecosystem functions and structures, as well as help support food production and security; and how genetic resources (animals, plants, and micro-organisms) are vital for agricultural biodiversity.

At the Rio Earth Summit in 1992, 150 nations signed the Convention on Biological Diversity, ‘biological diversity’ or ‘biodiversity’ being understood to be the totality of genes, species and ecosystems of a region. The document seeks to set real and tangible goals for nations to achieve in order to protect living species and their habitats.

Throughout today in countries worldwide, people will have the opportunity to take part in activities that help educate, publicize, and emphasize the benefits of biodiversity to human well-being.

Sources:
www.betterworldcalender.com
www.planetfriendly.net

Victoria Blackshaw
[email protected]