How to Support Biodiversity: Immediate Actions for a Healthier Planet

Biodiversity—the diversity of life in all its forms, from the smallest insect to the largest mammal—is not merely an aesthetic luxury; it is essential for the functioning of our planet. Biodiversity drives ecosystem services that provide clean air, water, and soil, regulate our climate, and support the very foundations of human life. Yet, it is facing unprecedented challenges. Habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, and over-exploitation are pushing species to extinction at rates not seen since the dinosaurs’ demise. According to the UN's Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, around one million species are now at risk of extinction (IPBES, 2019). But there is hope—every action, no matter how small, has the potential to make a difference. From individual choices to global policy changes, we can all contribute to reversing the trend of biodiversity loss.

Understanding the Stakes: Why Biodiversity Matters

Biodiversity is more than a matter of saving animals and plants; it is crucial for human survival. The ecosystem services provided by biodiversity—such as pollination, soil fertilization, and carbon sequestration—are integral to agricultural productivity, human health, and the global economy. The loss of biodiversity threatens food security, clean water, and the mitigation of climate change. In fact, a 2018 study published in Science showed that ecosystem services contribute $125 trillion annually to the global economy (Costanza et al., 2018).

However, the rate of species extinction has now reached levels far beyond natural processes. According to the Living Planet Report by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF, 2020), populations of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians have declined by 68% in just over 40 years. Climate change alone is expected to contribute to the extinction of 15-37% of species by 2050 (Thomas et al., 2004).

Key Actions: How You Can Help Protect Biodiversity

1. Transforming Your Garden Into a Habitat for Local Wildlife

Whether you live in an urban apartment or a rural home, your outdoor space—no matter how small—can play a pivotal role in supporting biodiversity. Start by planting native species, which are essential for local wildlife. Native plants, such as milkweed for monarch butterflies or wildflowers for bees, provide both food and shelter for pollinators and other beneficial insects.

Additionally, adding a small water feature, such as a birdbath or pond, provides a critical resource for animals. Leaving an undisturbed corner with logs, grass, or wildflowers can also create shelter for hedgehogs, beetles, and other creatures, supporting local biodiversity.

2. Reducing Pesticide Use and Embracing Natural Pest Control

Pesticides and herbicides are major threats to biodiversity, harming beneficial insects like pollinators and disrupting food chains. Opt for natural pest control methods like planting herbs that attract ladybugs, which feed on aphids, or using organic methods like crushed eggshells to deter slugs. Companion planting—such as using garlic to deter pests in rose gardens—can naturally reduce the need for chemical pesticides.

3. Supporting Pollinators: Essential Workers of Our Ecosystems

Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and bats are vital for the reproduction of 75% of flowering plants and many crops. However, pollinator populations are in steep decline due to habitat loss and pesticide exposure. To help, plant a diverse range of flowers that bloom throughout the growing season. Avoid hybrid flowers that provide little nectar, and consider installing bee hotels to provide solitary bees with a place to nest.

4. Advocate for Broader Systemic Change

The crisis of biodiversity loss requires systemic solutions, beyond individual actions. Support policies that protect ecosystems and biodiversity. Join or support organizations like the World Resources Institute (WRI) or the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) that are working on global conservation efforts. Advocate for the restoration of degraded ecosystems, the protection of endangered species, and the creation of wildlife corridors to ensure connectivity between habitats.

The Role of Governments and Corporations in Biodiversity Protection

While individual actions are crucial, addressing biodiversity loss on a global scale requires coordinated efforts from governments, corporations, and international bodies. The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), a global treaty signed by 196 countries, aims to promote the sustainable use of biodiversity. However, political barriers, lack of funding, and conflicting economic interests have hindered progress.

International corporations also have a significant role to play. Industries like agriculture, forestry, and mining often contribute to biodiversity loss. Companies that commit to sustainable practices—such as reducing deforestation or supporting sustainable agriculture—can help protect ecosystems. Companies like Patagonia, which are known for their environmental commitments, offer a model for corporate responsibility in biodiversity conservation.

Contributions from Local Communities: Success Stories

Around the world, local communities are leading the charge in biodiversity conservation. In London, rooftop and balcony gardens have transformed urban spaces into vital pollinator corridors, providing much-needed habitats for bees and butterflies. In the Midwest, farmers are replanting native prairie grasses alongside their fields, which not only support local wildlife but also improve soil health and water retention.

In the Maldives, local communities are taking action to restore coral reefs. By planting heat-resistant coral species, these communities are protecting marine biodiversity while ensuring the continued prosperity of their coastal livelihoods.

Concluding Thoughts: A Call to Action

Supporting biodiversity is not just about protecting wildlife; it’s about ensuring the long-term health of the planet and its inhabitants. Whether you start small by planting pollinator-friendly flowers or participate in large-scale conservation projects, every action matters. By advocating for policy changes, supporting sustainable businesses, and taking individual action, we can help secure a balanced, thriving planet for generations to come.

References

• Costanza, R., et al. (2018). The value of ecosystem services: A critical review of the literature. Science, 358(6363), 1102-1109.

• IPBES. (2019). Global assessment report on biodiversity and ecosystem services. United Nations.

• Thomas, C. D., et al. (2004). Extinction risk from climate change. Nature, 427(6970), 145-148.

• WWF. (2020). Living planet report 2020: Bending the curve of biodiversity loss. World Wildlife Fund.