Biodiversity, encompassing the variety of all life forms on Earth, is fundamental to sustaining the ecosystems that provide us with food, clean water, air, and numerous other services crucial to our survival and well-being.
Fish contribute to approximately 20% of animal protein intake for around 3 billion individuals. Plants supply over 80% of the human diet.
Moreover, up to 80% of rural inhabitants in developing nations depend on traditional plant-based remedies for essential healthcare needs.
In December 2022, the world agreed on a global strategy to reshape our connection with the natural world. The adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, also known as The Biodiversity Plan, establishes objectives and specific actions to halt and reverse the decline of nature by 2050.
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This year, the International Day for Biological Diversity is themed ‘Be a part of the plan.’ It serves as a rallying call to urge governments, indigenous communities, local groups, NGOs, legislators, businesses, and individuals to showcase their contributions to implementing the Biodiversity Plan. Each person has a role to fulfill and can thus become #PartOfThePlan.
As we face unprecedented climate change, habitat loss, and pollution challenges, the theme ‘Be a Part of the Plan’ calls upon everyone to contribute to global efforts to safeguard biodiversity.
It emphasizes collective action and the importance of integrating biodiversity into all aspects of life, from local conservation projects to international policy-making.
This year’s observance is anticipated to amplify momentum leading up to the sixteenth session of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP 16), scheduled to take place in Colombia from October 21 to November 1, 2024.
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By participating in the plan, individuals can make a difference through simple daily actions, supporting sustainable practices, and advocating for stronger environmental protections.
This year’s celebration of the International Day of Biological Diversity reminds us that preserving the Earth’s biodiversity is not just the responsibility of governments and large organizations but a shared duty of every person.
We can ensure a healthier, more resilient planet for future generations by coming together and taking decisive steps. Join the movement, be a part of the plan, and help protect the incredible variety of life that makes our world so unique and vibrant.
