International Day for Biological Diversity

International Day for Biological Diversity History

International Day for Biological Diversity seeks to raise awareness about biological diversity and the issues surrounding it. This day aims to highlight effective strategies that can help protect biodiversity. Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on the planet. Today, habitats are degrading and leading to a reduction in biodiversity, a problem that directly affects human well-being, poverty reduction, and global sustainable development.

International Day for Biological Diversity was established in 2000 by the United Nations General Assembly. It is observed annually on May 22, a day that commemorates the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity in 1992.

Facts about Biological Diversity

• Scientists estimate that there are anywhere between 8.7 million to 30 million species on Earth. However, only about 1.5 million species have been identified and classified thus far.
• Despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor, coral reefs are estimated to be home to 25% of all marine species.
• Habitat degradation and the loss of biodiversity is a threat to the livelihood of over 1 billion people who live in dry and subhumid climates.
• According to the UN, more than 3 billion people depend on marine and coastal biodiversity for their livelihoods and 1.6 billion people rely on forests and non-timber forest products for their livelihoods.
• According to National Geographic, there are about 8.7 million species of plants and animals that exist on our planet, but only 1.2 million of them have been discovered so far.
• Over 50% of the world’s plant species and 42% of all terrestrial vertebrate species are native to a specific country and do not naturally exist elsewhere.

In the News and Trending in the US for International Day for Biological Diversity

Top things to do in the US for this observance

• Spread awareness on social media by using the hashtags #InternationalDayForBiologicalDiversity, #IDBD and #BiologicalDiversity.
• Join the international Day for Biological Diversity Google Hangout where you can video stream yourself and with other people to discuss biological diversity with like-minded individuals.
• Watch a movie or documentary on the importance and irreplaceability of the world’s biodiversity. Some suggestions are: The Cove, Oceans, Plastic Planet and the 11th hour.
• Organize or participate in a local cleanup effort. Biodiversity is very negatively impacted by human trash and pollution.
• Donate to the center for biological diversity. All funds are put towards securing a future for all species hovering on the brink of extinction. Emphasis is on protecting lands, waters, and climates that species need to survive. Consider funds like WWF, the Animal Project, and Defenders of Wildlife.