The Web of Life.
Entwined we are, connected we are, dependent on each other, yes we are.
Each day we see the trademarks of biological diversity in trees rooted for years, natural processes and through the influence of humans. All of these characters form the web of life of which we humans are an integral part of and on which we fully depend.
Do you know that scientists have identified over 13 million species of plants and animals?
Diversity is often understood as a wide variety of plants, animals and microorganisms. Biological diversity is the variety of life on Earth and the natural patterns which are formed. Biological diversity also includes genetic differences; it is our genetic building block that determines the uniqueness of each species of life.
Do you know that ecosystems are part of biodiversity?
In each ecosystem, be it in the desert, forest, agricultural lands, wetlands, mountains, lakes or rivers, living creatures form communities. Within these communities, there are interactions with each other, with the air, water and soil. The combination of these life forms and their interactions with their immediate environment has made this Earth a uniquely habitable place for humans.
Do you know about 1 million plants and animal species are now threatened with extinction?
Extinction even though being a part of evolution, has seen species vanishing each day. However, it is sad to say that humans are driving this extinction at an alarmingly fast rate, from the actions of deforestation and over consumption to pollution.
In Guyana, a plethora of biodiversity is important in ecosystems because it prevents extinction of our species, allows organisms to adapt to changes in the environment and provides a wide range of materials and foods for mankind’s survival. As such, Guyana signed on to an agreement in 1992 to pledge its commitment to “sustainable development”, the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD). This convention entered into force on December 29, 1993 with three main objectives: Conservation of biological diversity; Sustainable use of the components of biological diversity: and The fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources. Further, in December 2000, the United Nations General Assembly adopted May 22, as International Day of Biological Diversity (IDB).
Did you know May 22 was adopted as IDB because it was difficult for many countries to plan and carry out celebrations in December, given the number of holiday activities which coincide?
As the global community is being summoned to re-look at its relationship with nature, one thing is quite evident, even with all the technological advances we are still fully dependent on a “healthy and vibrant ecosystem”. A healthy environment provides the essentials for the existence of all species, it provides for the continuation of the web of life. Healthy and vibrant biological diversities provide cleaner waters, safer foods, shelter, medicines, clothes and sources of energy.
This year International Day of Biological Diversity aims to tell a story as we bear witness to the final period for the 2011-2020 strategic plan on Biological Diversity. The year 2020 is a year of reflection, availability, opportunity and solutions. We can “bend the curve”, all biodiversity is not lost.
So, as we celebrate International Day of Biological Diversity on May 22, in this COVID- 19 pandemic, let’s remember there is hope, let us work together to build a future of life in harmony with nature.
International Day of Biological Diversity-May 22- “Our Solutions are in Nature”
Sources:
- https://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/wilderness-resources/blogs/why-biodiversity-big-deal
- https://www.cbd.int/idb/
- https://www.un.org/en/events/biodiversityday/
- https://www.unenvironment.org/events/un-day/international-day-biological-diversity-2020
You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: The Environmental Protection Agency, C/O Communications Department, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and You Tube.
