International Year of Biodiversity
28 January 2010
International Year of Biodiversity
2010 has been declared as the International Year of Biodiversity by the United Nations, and it is being celebrated across the world, from plants and animals right down to micro-organisms.
Biodiversity is the term used to describe the variety of life on Earth. It includes every plant and animal, and humans- we are biodiversity too. All of biodiversity is linked, and human life is intertwined with nature. Our food and drink, medicine, fuel, clothing and building materials all come from nature, and without them, we could not live in the way we do. Despite this, biodiversity is being lost across the globe at an alarming rate, due to a variety of factors, including pollution, climate change, poor management, destruction for housing and industry developments, soil erosion and over exploitation of resources.
In the UK, International Year of Biodiveristy is being used as your chance to learn more about the rich tapestry of life around you, discover why it's important for a healthy environment and get involved in monitoring and conserving your local wildlife. There are over 200 partners in the UK, who have all signed up to celebrating our wildlife, raising awareness of it, and ultimately protecting it from further loss.
In Scotland, the IYB was launched on 12th January by Environment Minister, Roseanna Cunningham, who encouraged the public to get out and discover more of the Scottish natural environment throughout 2010. Scottish Natural Heritage are taking a lead in promoting the year in Scotland, more details can be found on their website: www.snh.gov.uk/scottish/2010yearofbiodiversity.asp
There are many events and activities going on across the UK, organised by a range of organisations, from national bodies and agencies to small charities and local groups. You can also take part in UK wide surveys, such as Garden Bird Watch or the UK Ladybird Survey. More information on these surveys can be found at www.biodiversityislife.net/?q=home, where you can also see details of key national events, and search for events in your local area.
