International Day for Biological Diversity

History

The International Day for Biological Diversity was first Sanctioned by the United Nations. This initiative perfectly matched their agenda of a sustainable environment that was given by them in the Sustainable development goals 2015. The United Nations calls upon cooperation between the various stakeholders from different backgrounds to give their insight and their ability to work towards sustainable development.

Theme

The theme for this year’s International Day for Biological Diversity is “We’re part of the solution”.

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Science and Knowledge

The first step to understand a problem is to detect that there is a problem. Science and traditional knowledge not only help understand the state of biodiversity but also enables us to comprehend the drivers of biodiversity loss and pathways for a sustainable future.

Biodiversity is presented as a solution to climate change. The polar bear was chosen because it is an iconic mammal species commonly associated with climate change and habitat loss, both aquatic and terrestrial.

Conservation of Biodiversity

Raising awareness on protected areas and other effective area- based protection measures, which deal with the different objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity.

The goose was chosen because it is a migratory bird species, both terrestrial and aquatic, spanning many geographical areas and habitats that extend beyond national boundaries.

Health, Food and Biodiversity

World Bee Day, 20 May, which precedes Biodiversity Day, is devoted to health, agriculture, food security, food, and feed.

The bee (or bumblebee) was chosen because it is an important pollinator of immense economic significance. The tree, in addition to the multitude of ecosystem services that it provides, can be interpreted as a fruit tree or used for other purposes, including the health benefits from spending time in nature.

People, Culture and Biodiversity

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, 21 May, highlights devoted to people and culture in relation to biodiversity. The day highlights how indigenous peoples and local communities play a vital role in biodiversity conservation and sustainable use.

The girl was chosen to represent humans and our role and responsibility in the big picture, as our social roles have a profound effect on our surrounding environment. The flower represents our (sustainable) use of biodiversity and all the benefits we derive from nature.