Preserving Biodiversity

Coming in to this wonderful world, we say we are blessed with much bequest from our Creator. Our Mother Earth is in abundance of many means. It is therefore up to us living on it to preserve or desecrate.  

In preserving our biodiversity, one must learn and understand our biodiversity. If we understand the importance of our environment then we realize the need to protect it.   

Our environment is characterized by biodiversity, which is responsible for maintaining a state of equilibrium in the environment. Loss of biodiversity will eventually trigger an ecological disaster. Thus, its preservation should be one of the priority goals of mankind.

The Red Planet

Biodiversity encompasses the whole variety of life on Earth. It includes all species of plants and animals, but also their genetic variation, and the complex ecosystems of which they are part. It is not restricted to rare or threatened species but includes the whole of the natural world from the commonplace to the critically endangered.

The intricate network of ecosystems, habitats and species comprising biodiversity provides the support systems that sustain human existence. It provides many of the essentials of life such as our oxygen, water, food, clothing, health and relaxation. The value of biodiversity extends from the spiritual benefits to be gained from contact with nature, to the economic potential of wild species for new sources of food or medicines. This includes the potential for new products being produced through advances in biotechnology.

In a local context, biodiversity has particular importance in giving a distinctive character to an area whether it be chalk down land, estuary, woodland or mountain. Even in towns and cities, oases of wildlife habitat make an important contribution to the quality of life.

However, the world is losing biodiversity at an ever-increasing rate as a result of human activity. In one country in particular, over 100 species were lost during the last century, with many more species and habitats in danger of disappearing, especially at the local level. On a world scale the rate of loss is now recognized to be a cause for serious concern, requiring concerted international action to prevent continued loss of biodiversity. The underlying reasons for biodiversity conservation make a compelling case. If we do not take action, we shall suffer both economic and spiritual loss. Moreover, we shall hand on to our successors a planet which is markedly poorer than the one we were privileged to inherit. We all have a part to play in safeguarding the Earth’s biodiversity and action needs to be taken at every level from local to global. 

Here are some suggested things that we could possibly do.

Distinguish Between Need and Greed
It is believed that man is driven by either his need or his greed. The greed of mankind has taken a toll on the environment. Many species of plants and animals have fallen prey to this greed. Do not by products that may eliminate these species. We should buy the products that we really need and be satisfied with it. By using only the products that you need, you will reduce the demand for several animal and plant products, which will eventually stop the manufacturing of such products, and thus save numerous species of plants and animals.

Minimize Pollution
The alarming rate of global warming will eventually result in climate change, which might make it difficult for certain endemic species to survive in their natural habitat, and this may result in their extinction. So, it is essential to try avoiding any activity which directly or indirectly increases global warming, or results in any damage to plants and animals (aquatic, terrestrial, etc.). It is difficult to completely avoid pollution, but you can surely do your bit to minimize it.

Buy "Green" Products
There are now organic products being sold in the market. Most of these organic products are produced without harming the environment. Pesticides and other destructive chemicals are not used in their farms. So we have to encourage farmers in producing more organic vegetables and fruits and we should also buy their products.

There are various companies which use a manufacturing process that does not harm the environment. Go for the products made by such companies. This will motivate other companies to implement environmentally friendly techniques to the production of their products. Prefer local market products, as transportation of products from distant markets contribute to environmental pollution. .






Tree planting

The first thing that might come to your mind when you think of preserving biodiversity might be to save the forests! I agree with you, and I also believe that minimizing deforestation can be a major step in conserving biodiversity, but it is very difficult to check deforestation from your home. If we want to tackle deforestation, we have to rely on reforestation, which is a process that can take years to bear fruit, but will definitely be worth it. Join tree planting activities in your locality. 

Avoid Invasive Species
People want their garden to be unique, so they prefer exotic species like trees and plants in their garden, and thus neglect the native species. Your favorite exotic species may turn out to be invasive, and might hinder the growth of the native species. In order to preserve biodiversity, it is important that you promote the growth of native species. Invasive species are not restricted to plants; invasive species of animals (translocated by humans) may also become dominant, thus resulting in the decline of the native species of animals.

 Finally! Believe that you can make a difference. Small initiatives taken by you can have a major impact! The environment was not damaged in a day, so you cannot expect it to recover in a day. Only persistent efforts can save our environment! Let's do what we can!