INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY

Biodiversity, which refers to the variety and the variability of living organisms on this earth — and fundamental to human well-being, a healthy planet, and economic prosperity for all— is under peril.

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About 25% of species are facing the threat of extinction.

The theme for International Day for Biological Diversity this year (observed annually on May 22) is “Harmony with nature and sustainable development”. The date ‘commemorates the adoption of the text of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on May 22, 1992’. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) was also developed by the CBD with four goals as well as 23 targets to conserve global biodiversity (conserve and manage 30% of terrestrial and marine biodiversity) by 2030. Target 12 of the GBF lays emphasis on enhancing green and blue spaces in cities and urban planning for human well-being and biodiversity conservation. Goal 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal also states the importance of making cities and human settlements safe, resilient and sustainable. But, still, urban biodiversity is under great threat with unplanned development and human greed.

Green space in urban sprawls

Almost half the world’s population lives in urban areas, a percentage that is expected to rise to 70% by 2050. City spaces are of premium value and face competing demands. In such a situation, do we have space for greenery? The answer is yes if you consider the range of benefits urban biodiversity offers.

Overfishing — the threat to ocean wealth, livelihoods