World Biological Diversity Day 2019

Today is World Biological Diversity Day! Biodiversity is the variety of life, it’s beautiful, it strengthens the Earth, and it has infinite value. It is vital. Conservation is no longer simply an “issue”. It’s now about survival, and that includes our own. If that sounds dire, it’s because it is. Biodiversity is a complex component of life on Earth that weaves us all together and keeps us all alive.

There are millions of different species on Earth, most of which have yet to be documented. Biodiversity starts at the genetic level and extends to individuals, species, communities, and ecosystems. Some organisms are simple, while others are complex. Many are producers, some are prey, and others are predators. They may employ strategies such as commensalism, mutualism, or parasitism. The air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink all rely on biodiversity. Every ecosystem on the planet contains countless examples of interactions that maintain life—locally and ultimately globally. This is a mind-blowing system.

All organisms are connected. We rely on each other. This intrinsic connection is a major reason why the Earth is such a homey, habitable place. When biodiversity declines, we all suffer. Think of biodiversity as a museum full of amazing, irreplaceable artwork. From this perspective, humans are burning down the museum of life. As we destroy other species through our actions, we essentially destroy ourselves. Major factors influencing biodiversity include pollution, habitat loss and degradation, climate change, overexploitation of natural resources, and invasive species. We have the power to act so that the wealth of nature is safeguarded. Our collective actions can restore the balance and protect what is left of our planet. Let’s take our focus off the domesticated landscape and work together to make wise choices that will ensure a future for all life on Earth. #JungleDragon