Decade on Biodiversity
Over the next ten years, from 2011–2020, countries all over the world are taking action to help save the variety of life on Earth so that we can live more in harmony with nature. Our wellbeing is dependent on the health of our ecosystems.
This decade is critical as it's the timeframe for implementing the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity agreed in Nagoya Japan in October 2010.
Why does biodiversity matter?
Biodiversity is the term for every living thing on Earth from the smallest microscopic organisms to the biggest blue whale and the habitats they depend on.
Biodiversity also includes every one of us, although we currently pose the greatest threat to nature. We also offer the only hope for protecting and conserving the diversity of life for future generations.
The rich variety of life is essential for sustaining the natural living systems, or ecosystems, that provide us with food, fuel, health, wealth, and other vital services.
These web pages promote the United Nations Decade on Biodiversity by exploring international, national and regional issues around biodiversity concerns, commitments and successes.
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Latest news
| 16/05/2011 | A tree tribute |
| 08/04/2011 | Your say on natural heritage funding |
| 08/04/2011 | Mapping London's elms |
International Year of Forests
This year is International Year of Forests 2011. Forests are home to 80% of our land animals and plants. They are essential to people, providing resources, homes, and clean air and water.
International Day for Biological Diversity
Each year on 22 May nature events are held all over the world to celebrate the International Day for Biological Diversity. This year's events in the UK included Bioblitzes in Somerset, Ireland and London.
What's on
- Earth Debates
How do we plan a future that nurtures a healthy world alongside the needs of a growing population? Have your say in the run up to the Earth Summit 2012 by getting involved in the Earth Debates and help shape the future of our planet.
Did you know...
For every 1°C temperature rise, 10% of species are predicted to become extinct globally.
Defra
