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Celebrating International Day for Biodiversity

On May 22nd, we join hands with the global community to celebrate International Day for Biodiversity.


Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, terrestrial and aquatic, encompassing plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, as well as the ecosystems they form (cbd, n.d.).


What does biodiversity mean to you? Please do share your thoughts in the comment box, we would love to read them.


If I had to represent biodiversity, I would picture it as an ancient oak tree.


The oak tree as a symbol of biodiversity
Credit: BEES

Robust and majestic, the oak tree is a giant ecosystem on its own, providing food, shelter, and breeding spaces for lots of species. The young sapling may well have been surrounded by brambles and nettles, which bring so much wildlife too (Woodland Trust, n.d.,a), preventing it from being grazed. As the tree grows strong and tall, it develops extensive root networks and mycorrhizal associations with fungi to help with water and nutrient absorption, whilst also improving soil structure and stability. With age, it develops cavities, crevices, dead wood and other features that plants, birds, insects, and mammals cherish. It can support 2,300 species from which 326 rely on it for survival (Woodland Trust, n.d., b; Mitchell et al., 2019).


Biodiversity is intertwined with our cultural heritage, shaping our traditions, beliefs, and identities. Standing tall like the iconic Major Oak of Sherwood Forest (Sherwood Forest, n.d.), the English oak (Quercus robur) has inspired countless poems, witnessed our history unfold, and enriched our traditions in ways both grand and subtle. Its fruit were not only great for pigs but for centuries it became the fallback food during periods of crop failure or famine (Maraschi, 2018).


Many of our medicines, including antibiotics and cancer treatments, are derived from plants and animals. Traditional medicine and natural products are still widely used (WHO, 2015). The oak tree contains phenolic compounds, triterpenoids and flavonoids which have anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and anti-cancer properties and may have promising therapeutic uses (Taib et al., 2020).


In a world facing the challenges of climate change and habitat destruction, biodiversity is our best insurance policy. While biodiversity loss is a global issue, we can make a difference right here in the UK and Be Part of the Plan.


How we can Be Part of the Plan

https://www.cbd.int/sites/default/files/2024-03/IDB_Logo_2024_English.png

Here are some steps we can all take to promote biodiversity:


  • Support local conservation groups: Look for organisations working on habitat restoration or species protection. Becoming a member, volunteering or donating can make a real difference.

  • Create wildlife havens: Whether it's a small garden or a community park, creating wildlife-friendly habitats can provide refuge for native plants and animals.

  • Support sustainable farming: Choose food in season and produced by local sustainable farms. Look for labels like “Red Tractor” or organic certification. Sustainable farms often plant wildflowers, maintain hedgerows and encourage natural predators for pest control, creating a haven for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. They minimise the use of pesticide and fertiliser to protect and promote healthy soil ecosystems.

  • Reduce waste: Waste less, compost food waste and recycle more to minimise pollution and habitat destruction.

  • Become a citizen scientist: Be involved in collecting data on local wildlife, providing valuable information for conservation efforts.

  • Be informed, stay updated and spread the word: Organisations like the Wildlife Trusts regularly host events and activities focused on wildlife and conservation. Check their websites for upcoming events. Stay informed, learn about nature and biodiversity and spread the word. At BEES it is our mission to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity in our community. We train ambassadors for nature and nature guides, and together we can be powerful agents of change and encourage others to take action to protect biodiversity triggering a positive tipping point for nature. Every small action adds up to make a positive impact on biodiversity.


“A tipping point is where a small intervention leads to large and long-term consequences for the evolution of a complex system, profoundly altering its mode of operation” (From Lenton et al., 2022)


On this International Day for Biodiversity, let's celebrate the incredible richness of life on Earth and recommit ourselves to protecting and promoting biodiversity for generations to come. Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future.


Join us in celebrating biodiversity on 22nd May!



 

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