Don’t overlook biodiversity!

May 22 is recognised by the United Nations (UN) as the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. This year’s theme is biodiversity for sustainable development, which reflects the relevance of biodiversity for the achievement of sustainable development.

At least 40 per cent of the world’s economy and 80 per cent of the needs of the poor are derived from biological resources. In addition, the richer the diversity of life, the greater the opportunity for medical discoveries, economic development and adaptive responses to such new challenges as climate change. Biodiversity is threatened by the combined actions of our society just going about our day-to-day business. We as individuals can do a lot to help slow and prevent the declining biodiversity. Since consumption of resources is a root cause of the decline in biodiversity, we should consume less and be more mindful about what we consume.

I would like to urge readers to respect and care for animals, birds, plants and all forms of Nature. Let’s not pollute water in beaches, oceans and rivers as it badly impacts marine life. Let’s not cut down forests, let’s minimise the use of pesticides, let’s cut down on the use of fuel by carpooling or using public transportation. Let’s go for organic food and be eco-friendly in all our actions and in our lifestyle. Many of our daily actions may not directly impact biodiversity, but contribute to the decline. From Ms Arushi Madan UAE