The interconnection between plants, animals, and ecosystems forms the “web of life,” an essential structure that sustains the survival and well-being of all living beings, including humans. This structure acts as an ecological safety net that, if deteriorated, jeopardizes the future of the planet and all its inhabitants. This is where the importance of preserving biodiversity lies.
In this sense, a recent study highlights that the benefits provided by biodiversity are fundamental for human daily life, as they are underrepresented in scientific and political debates. For this reason, ignoring its benefits could hinder global efforts to preserve biodiversity and its essential contributions.
protecting the planet’s biodiversity
The key benefits of biodiversity
- Essential sustenance
Biodiversity provides food, clean air, and drinking water, fundamental elements for life. For centuries, ecosystems have supplied human civilizations with the necessary resources for their development. - Natural protection
Ecosystems regulate the climate, capture carbon, and mitigate diseases like COVID-19. Forests and oceans play crucial roles as carbon sinks, while healthy ecosystems buffer extreme climate events. - Balanced natural cycles
Elements like nitrogen and phosphorus, essential for life, circulate thanks to ecosystems. However, human activity has disrupted these cycles, causing soil degradation and creating dead zones in bodies of water. - Human well-being
Nature is a source of physical and mental well-being. Indigenous communities, for example, understand the intrinsic relationship between humans and the environment, considering nature as part of their cultural identity. - Future solutions
Medical and scientific advancements often find inspiration in biodiversity. Its preservation is key to continue discovering solutions to emerging problems.
Great biodiversity of monkeys in Brazil
The importance of wildlife in ecosystems
Of the 18 categories of Nature’s Contributions to People (NCP), as defined by IPBES, at least 12 are directly related to wildlife. These include:
- Material benefits such as food and livelihoods, through fishing and hunting.
- Intangible values like ecotourism, psychological well-being, and a sense of cultural identity.
- Ecosystem regulation through pollination, seed dispersal, population control, and disease mitigation.
The loss of species has devastating effects on ecosystems. For example, the hunting of sea otters in the 19th century in North America allowed the proliferation of sea urchins, destroying kelp forests and affecting marine biodiversity, fishing communities, and coastal resilience.
biodiversity ambassadors
Towards effective biodiversity management
Research emphasizes the need to integrate wildlife benefits into global policies such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. This approach would prioritize wildlife conservation, not only to protect ecosystems but also to ensure the continuity of benefits that sustain our societies.
Additionally, the use of advanced technologies like satellites, artificial intelligence, and citizen science can improve the monitoring and management of natural resources. However, these solutions require additional funding and global commitment.
In the upcoming COP16 session in Rome, it will be crucial to remember that the “invisible” benefits of biodiversity are essential for current and future generations. An ambitious financial agreement is needed to implement conservation measures that safeguard these invaluable resources, that is, to preserve the biodiversity that is so important for the planet’s life.
Preserving marine biodiversity in international waters
How to protect biodiversity?
To preserve biodiversity, individual and collective actions can be taken, such as:
- Protecting natural spaces: Creating or conserving protected areas, such as national parks, nature reserves, etc.
- Combatting deforestation: Avoiding tree felling and pollution of water, air, and soil.
- Promoting sustainable agriculture: Reducing the use of pesticides and fertilizers, and diversifying species.
- Managing natural resources: Producing energy, materials, and food sustainably.
- Changing consumption habits: Reducing waste and consuming local and organic products.
- Participating in volunteer activities: Helping in river cleanups, reforestation, and other actions contributing to biodiversity conservation.
- Educating oneself about the environment: Understanding the species in the region and their importance for the ecosystem.
- Supporting traditional communities: Recognizing the role of indigenous communities in conserving natural resources.
- Adopting a tree or garden: Caring for green spaces in the city and promoting local biodiversity.
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