International Day for Biological Diversity
Biodiversity is the living fabric of our planet. It underpins human wellbeing in the present and in the future. Yet, it is declining faster than ever. Three-quarters of the land-based environment and about 66% of the marine environment have been significantly altered by human actions. 1 million animal and plant species are now threatened with extinction. Climate change, pollution, overexploitation, invasive species, and urbanization are driving this crisis.
The International Day for Biological Diversity is a call to act—transform how we live and reconnect with nature.
UNESCO, as the sole UN Organization with a mandate in science, is leading global efforts to protect biodiversity by linking science, nature, and culture. Together, we can restore balance and build a sustainable future for all.
Living in harmony with nature and sustainable development
In December 2022, the world adopted the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework — a plan with 23 targets for 2030 and 5 goals for 2050 to reverse nature loss, including restoring 20% of degraded ecosystems and halving invasive species.
This International Day for Biological Diversity, themed “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development,” highlights the link between biodiversity and the SDGs. The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is responsible for the observance of this Day and serves as the UN instrument for the protection of biodiversity.
UNESCO calls for a sustainable use of natural resources, ecosystem restoration, and youth engagement to rebuild harmony between people and nature.
Biological diversity is a promise of life. It is the vital force that connects ecosystems and makes life itself possible. By protecting biodiversity, we are protecting this fundamental connection between humanity and nature.
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UNESCO designated sites promote a sustainable use of biodiversity
UNESCO's action in biodiversity
Mangrove restoration as a nature-based solution in biosphere reserves in LAC
Improving resilience and halting biodiversity loss in the Greater Amazon Basin
Promoting the recognition and use of Indigenous knowledge in biodiversity and ecosystem policy
Measuring marine biodiversity, and the impacts of climate change
Resources
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