2010 was declared by the United Nations as the International Year of Biodiversity.
The Earth therefore takes centre stage for a full year.
A key year for countries to mobilise and for citizens to become aware of the state of global biodiversity and the consequences of its decline, and to find, together, the means to preserve the planet.
While the term itself is recent, biodiversity is the result of the long history of the Earth and the evolution of living organisms.
Biodiversity is the living fabric of our planet. It encompasses the full range of natural habitats and life forms, as well as all the relationships and interactions that exist between living organisms themselves and their environments.
The concept of biodiversity itself comprises three interdependent levels: the diversity of habitats at every scale, the diversity of species living within those habitats, and the diversity of individuals within each species.
Through a range of events held worldwide — including in France — the International Year of Biodiversity aims to:
– strengthen public awareness of the importance of safeguarding biodiversity
– raise awareness of achievements already made
– encourage individuals, organisations and governments to take immediate, necessary action
– promote innovative solutions
A worthwhile initiative, to be carried forward in 2011 by the International Year of Forests.
Another UN resolution, inviting governments, relevant non-governmental organisations, the private sector and other stakeholders to make concerted awareness-raising efforts at every level, in order to strengthen the sustainable management, conservation and viable development of all types of forests for the benefit of present and future generations.
Let’s mobilise! It’s for our own good… and that of our children!
