What is Biodiversity, and why does it matter?

Biodiversity is one of those terms we hear often, but its importance isn’t always clear.

Simply put, biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth—plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms—and the ecosystems they create. It’s the intricate web that keeps our planet running smoothly.

But biodiversity is under threat. Species are vanishing at an alarming rate, with 1 million species currently at risk of extinction. This loss isn’t just a tragedy for wildlife; it’s a crisis for humanity.

Biodiversity supports the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the stability of our climate. When ecosystems collapse, so do the services they provide.

For example, pollinators like bees and butterflies play a vital role in agriculture, ensuring we have fruits, vegetables, and nuts to eat. Healthy forests filter the water we drink and store vast amounts of carbon, helping regulate the climate.

When we protect biodiversity, we’re not just saving other species—we’re securing our own future. Biodiversity isn’t just about life on Earth; it’s about the quality of life for all of us.