Biodiversity day 22nd May
This Sunday is International Day for Biological Diversity. Better known as Biodiversity Day, the annual event was instigated by the United Nations back in 1993 to raise awareness about the plight of our precious ecosystems. Afterall, we rely on them for everything from water and food to fuel and medicines. As the environmental emergency intensifies, there’s never been a better time to learn more about the value of biodiversity and do your bit to secure a more sustainable future.
Earth’s rich and magnificent biodiversity is fundamental to all living things. Protecting and restoring interconnected ecosystems lies at the heart of sustainability and remains one of our greatest challenges.
Biological diversity resources are the pillars upon which we build civilizations. Fish provide 20% of animal protein to about 3 billion people. Over 80% of the human diet is provided by plants. As many as 80% of people living in rural areas in developing countries rely on traditional plant‐based medicines for basic healthcare. – United Nations.
Three-quarters of the land-based environment and about 66% of the marine environment have been significantly altered by human actions. At the same time, 1 million animal and plant species are now threatened with extinction. We are running out of time to redress the balance.
The theme for Biodiversity Day 2022 is “Building a shared future for all life” and the UN puts biodiversity at the heart of its sustainable development strategy, be it developing nature-based solutions to climate change, ensuring food and water security, or tackling health issues. It will be key to helping us build back better.
Humanity is putting untold pressure on the natural environment. We have already altered around three quarters of Earth’s surface, threatening habitats, polluting oceans, destroying rainforests and compromising ecosystems. We have to take responsibility for our actions and reassess our relationship with the world around us.
So, on Sunday, why not take time out to embrace biodiversity and do your bit to redress the balance?
At Wylde Connections we are passionate about sustainability and integrating it into how we all live, work and play. We’ve come up with some top tips on how you and your friends and family can do to mark this year’s event:
Out and about
- The best way to value biodiversity is to get outside and absorb yourself in it. You don’t have to go far to appreciate nature. Visit your local park, conservation area or riverbank.
- Take time to notice the insects, listen to the birds and try to identify the flora and fauna.
- Don’t disturb the animals whilst you walk. Keep to paths, keep your distance from wildlife, ensure dogs are on leads and make sure you dispose of your rubbish responsibly.
- Record what you see by taking photos, starting a nature diary or downloading a biodiversity app like SEEK to share your discoveries and help scientists track trends.
In the garden
- If you’re planning to do some gardening this weekend, take the opportunity to boost its biodiversity.
- Plant a tree.
- Put off the mowing and let your lawn go wild.
- Section off a portion of your garden as a wildlife sanctuary.
- Make a home for wildlife either by making a bird box, a small pond or even a bug hotel.
- Go organic and ditch the chemicals.
- Plant your own fruit and veg.
Volunteer
- Research local conservation groups in your area and see what activities you can participate in.
- Join a local litter pick.
- Help out at a community garden
At the shops
- Be more mindful about what you buy and consider its impact on biodiversity
- Take your own bags to the shops and set yourself a goal of avoiding plastic packaging.
- Visit your local farmers market or co-op to buy seasonal local produce.
- Choose eco-friendly cleaning products and cosmetics.
- Make sure any fish you buy is sustainably sourced.
- Plan meals for the week and take a shopping list to minimise food waste.
- Try to avoid products containing palm oil.
Food for thought
- Make this Sunday meat free. Livestock farming has a huge impact on biodiversity and the Climate Change Committee has called for a 20% reduction in meat and dairy consumption by 2030.
- You don’t have to go veggie or vegan to protect the planet. Discuss as a family how you might reduce the amount of meat in your diets.
- Have a discussion around the dinner table about where your food comes from and how it is produced.
Then keep up the momentum when you walk into work on Monday morning. Consider how you can promote biodiversity in the workplace.
Wylde Connections works with businesses at every stage of their sustainability journey. Talk to us about what we can do reduce your environmental impact, drive efficiencies and open up new revenue streams. Find out more about how we can help transform your operation.
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