Conserving and protecting biological diversity

Biological diversity (biodiversity) refers to the vast wealth of living beings – plants, animals, fungi and bacteria – on our planet. The term covers both biodiversity between species and the genetic variability within species. It also includes the whole spectrum of natural habitats or ecosystems worldwide.

Over millions of years, specific species and species communities have developed in different habitats on land, in the oceans and in freshwater ecosystems. The various species are adapted to the prevailing environmental conditions and interact with each other in finely balanced relationships. Because of the close links between species, the loss of one species can lead to the extinction of others.

The complex interactions are far from being fully understood. However, it is clear that protecting and conserving biological diversity on Earth is crucial for human life and survival, for prosperity and wellbeing.