Utilizing natural resources is one way for humans to maximize their life span on earth. Just like how plants and animals serve as food sources. Animals can also aid us in discovering diseases like influenza from pigs and salmonella infection from chickens. On the other hand, plants provide medicinal traits like the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of garlic or how ginger can relieve nausea and motion sickness. Our rainforests provide oxygen and protect us from forthcoming disasters. Lands and seas offer shelter for a variety of species on earth, as well as, provide a livelihood for human beings. The bottom line is, humans are heavily reliant on biodiversity. Without biodiversity, life will not simply function, making it difficult for us to survive. And that becomes one of the root causes for the continuous decline of biodiversity. Human activities have catalyzed this loss which will significantly affect other creatures on earth besides them. It is important to note that biodiversity resulted from millions of years of evolution. It takes a long time for it to increase and replenish itself. However, due to the overexploitation of human beings, its decline is as rapid as it can be.
“We’re Part of the Solution" is the 2021 theme for the International Day for Biological Diversity. It signifies the vital roles humans play in achieving a stable and balanced environment. Taking an active part and working in harmony with nature in finding solutions to sustainable development challenges entail success in arranging a better future for the next generations.
Before we dive in more about the concerns in biodiversity, let us first engage in a short history. In 1985, Walter G. Rosen coined the term biological diversity (or biodiversity, as what we are all familiar with) (National Geographic Society, 2019). Defined as “all the different kinds of life you’ll find in one area – the variety of animals, plants, fungi, and microorganisms that make up our natural world.” (Hancock, n.d.). It also includes genetic differences of varied species and the different ecosystems they live in (United Nations, n.d.).
Convention on Biological Diversity, developed in 1993, is an agreement that addresses issues and concerns regarding biodiversity. Participating countries use the three primary goals as a guide in designing measures to combat species loss. These goals are (1) conservation of biological diversity, (2) sustainable use of the components of biological diversity, and (3) fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources (National Geographic Society, n.d.).
The Philippines is one of the countries with a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. Moreover, its waters are part of the Coral Triangle (Goldman, 2010). A coral triangle is a marine area that houses varied maritime species such as coral reefs, fishes, and turtles (World Wildlife, n.d.). However, due to the continuous dangerous human activities, a collapse of wildlife is inevitable. On land, only four percent of the natural forest habitats of endemic species are remaining. On water, because of the unsustainable practices in fishing, different fish species are exposed to danger that causes population reduction. These pose a threat to the livelihood of humans and increase the risk of food shortage. The country is also a hub for illegal wildlife trafficking (Conservation International, n.d.). The role of nature in the existence of humans is beyond measurable. Nevertheless, humans have been unfairly taking advantage of its ability to serve our needs and then have the courage to leave it devastated without thinking about how this impacts other species in the ecosystem and how it will affect us in the future.
Scary, right? It is difficult to imagine how to live in a world with diminished biodiversity. Now, we have to perform our roles as stewards of the earth to prevent and mitigate its downfall. If we desire to achieve sustainability at local and international levels, strategic policies are necessary to be implemented by high governing bodies. Commitment in supporting target goals is a must to establish the extent of dedication and determination in putting an end to destructive activities. Indigenous people should be granted platforms to reach out and gain support for their movements. Courses of action should be inclusive, and all sectors of the society must be involved in organizing the undertakings (Diaz et al., 2019).
As students, we can help by utilizing sustainable resources in our daily activities and reduce plastic wastes like bringing eco bags in groceries or shopping. Conserve water and electricity usage. Decrease carbon footprint. And most importantly, vote for the right people in the upcoming elections who genuinely value nature conservation. They can also join and volunteer in organizations like World Wildlife Fund, Haribon Foundation, Save Philippine Seas, and Earth Island Institute Philippines that advocate environmental conservation and sustainability. We also advise everyone to raise our voices and urge executive departments like DENR and Department of Agriculture, along with other government agencies attached to it, to craft and implement policies with more sustainable practices and become the forefront institutions to fight and protect biodiversity from destruction. Furthermore, we call on the other nations to do their part in actively joining and promoting campaigns of global environmental protection and conservation. Remember that collective action and immediate measures are imperative to save our biodiversity from dying. Let us not fail Mother Nature and the next generations to come. We need to act now!
22 May 2021
References:
Conservation International. (n.d.). Protecting Biodiversity in the Philippines.
Diaz, S., Settele, J., Brondízio, E., Ngo, H. T., Guèze, M., Agard, J., ... & Zayas, C. (2019). The
global assessment report on biodiversity and ecosystem services. The United Nations’ Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services.
National Geographic Society. (2019, April 19). International Day of Biodiversity.
United Nations. (n.d.). International Day for Biological Diversity.
World Wildlife. (n.d.). Coral Triangle.https://www.worldwildlife.org/places/coral-triangle
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