Sabreena Bhat / Dr. Bilal Ahmad
The meaning of Biodiversity is biological diversity in an environment as indicated by number of different species of plants and animals. Biodiversity is not limited to the number of species alone; it also includes genetic diversity within species and the diversity of ecosystems such as forests, oceans, deserts, wetlands, and grasslands. Together, these components form the foundation of life on our planet.More precisely, it refers to all living beings including plants, bacteria, animals and humans. The Earth’s biodiversity has evolved over billions of years, shaped by natural processes and, more recently, by human influence. Every species, no matter how small, plays a role in maintaining ecological balance. Plants produce oxygen and food, animals help in pollination and seed dispersal, and microorganisms decompose organic matter and recycle nutrients. Biodiversity supports essential ecosystem services such as clean air and water, fertile soil, climate regulation, and disease control. Human civilization is deeply dependent on biodiversity. Our food, medicines, clothing, shelter, and energy resources all originate from nature. Many cultures, traditions, and belief systems are closely connected to the natural world. However, rapid industrialization, population growth, deforestation, pollution, overexploitation of resources, and climate change have placed immense pressure on biodiversity. Species extinction rates today are significantly higher than natural background levels, threatening the stability of ecosystems worldwide.There exist over 8 million species of plants and animals on earth, according to an estimates made by biologists. However, only around 1.2 million species have been identified and described so far. Millions of other organisms remain a complete mystery.
Biological diversity differs extensively across the globe, having places with high biodiversity, like rainforests and low biodiversity areas, as agricultural fields. Rich biological diversity is often regarded as a sign of a healthy ecosystem. However, much of the biodiversity on earth now is in jeopardy due to human exploitation that disturbs and even destroys ecosystems. Ecosystem, species, wild population, local population, local varieties and breeds of domesticated plants and animals are shrinking, deteriorating or vanishing. The essential, interconnected web of life on earth is getting smaller and increasingly frayed. The Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (2019), estimated that about 82 per cent of wild mammal biomass has been lost, while 40 per cent of amphibians, almost a third of reef-building corals, more than a third of marine mammals, and 10 per cent of all insects are threatened with extinction. Biodiversity is significantly important to human health, economies and livelihoods. The most distinctive feature of the earth is the existence of life, and the most extraordinary feature of life is its biological diversity. A new UN report from the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), warns the people across the globe about the rate of declination of natural resources, a summary of which was approved at the 7th session of the IPBES Plenary, meeting held last week (29 April – 4 May) in Paris. According to this, “nature is declining globally at rates unprecedented in human history – and the rate of species extinctions is accelerating, with grave impacts on people around the world”. The report also tells us that it is not too late to make a difference, but only if we start now at every level from local to global. According to a famous American biologist and naturalist E. O. Wilson, “we should preserve every scrap of biodiversity as priceless while we learn to use it and come to understand what it means to humanity”.
Many ecologists, biologists, and wildlife conservationists around the globe are researching why this alteration is happening at an alarming rate, the impacts of this change and the ways to conserve these important natural resources. This loss is a direct result of human activity as 3 billion people rely on marine and coastal biodiversity, while over 1.6 billion people depend on forests products for their livelihoods. Biological diversity resources are the pillars upon which we build civilizations. Fish provide 20 per cent of animal protein to about 3 billion people. Over 80 per cent of the human diet is provided by plants. 80 per cent of people living in rural areas in developing countries rely on traditional plant based medicines for basic healthcare. Just as the latest IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) report says, “climate change could have a negative and irreversible impact, if human actionsare not modified”. The future of biodiversity is highly threatened by climate change, but we can still do something. Ecosystem integrity underlines human health and development. While there is a growing recognition that biodiversity is a global asset of tremendous value to future generations, the number of species is being significantly reduced by certain human activities. Human-induced environmental changes modify wildlife population structure and reduce biodiversity, resulting in new environmental conditions that favor particular hosts, vectors, and pathogens. Loss of biodiversity threatens all, including our health. It has been proven that biodiversity loss could expand zoonoses – diseases transmitted from animals to humans- while, on the other hand, if we keep biodiversity intact, it offers excellent tools to fight against pandemics like those caused by coronaviruses. To stop or reverse this deterioration it is vital to change people’s roles, actions and relations with biodiversity. Around the world, UNESCO has witnessed positive and inspiring seeds of revolution by various networks, programs and partners. UNESCO also escorts the Member States and their people in their exertions to halt the loss of biodiversity by accepting, appreciating, safeguarding and using biodiversity sustainably. World Biodiversity Day serves as an important global platform to raise awareness about the value of biodiversity and the urgent need to conserve it. Observed on 29 December, World Biodiversity Day 2025 emphasizes humanity’s responsibility to protect life on Earth for present and future generations.
“Major world religions, particularly Islam, advocate for the conservation of natural biodiversity by recognizing the intrinsic value of all living beings. In Islamic teachings, animals and birds form “communities” similar to humans, reflecting divine wisdom. This perspective shifts biodiversity from a mere resource to a moral responsibility, emphasizing our ethical duty to preserve the Earth’s biological legacy for future generations.”
The history of World Biodiversity Day is closely linked to international efforts aimed at conserving nature and promoting sustainable development. In the late 20th century, growing environmental concerns prompted global leaders to recognize the need for a coordinated approach to biodiversity conservation. In 1992, the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), commonly known as the Earth Summit, was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. One of the most significant outcomes of this summit was the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The CBD is a legally binding international treaty with three main objectives: (i) Conservation of biological diversity (ii) Sustainable use of the components of biological diversity (iii) Fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources. To commemorate the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity, the United Nations declared 29 December as the International Day for Biological Diversity in 1993. The day was chosen because the CBD officially came into force on 29 December 1993.World Biodiversity Day has since been observed annually across the globe. Governments, environmental organizations, educational institutions, and communities participate through awareness campaigns, workshops, conferences, conservation projects, and cultural programs. Each year, the observance highlights specific challenges and priorities related to biodiversity conservation. Although the date was later shifted to 22 May for wider participation, 29 December remains historically significant as the original and official date marking the entry into force of the Convention on Biological Diversity. Observing World Biodiversity Day on 29 December 2025 pays tribute to this historic milestone and reinforces global commitment to biodiversity protection. World Biodiversity Day 2025 continues to emphasize the urgent need to halt biodiversity loss and restore ecosystems. The theme for the year reflects the global vision of living in harmony with nature, aligning with international biodiversity goals and sustainable development priorities. The 2025 theme focuses on: (a) Strengthening biodiversity conservation efforts at local, national, and global levels (b) Integrating biodiversity into sustainable development policies (c ) Restoring degraded ecosystems and protecting endangered species (d) Encouraging responsible consumption and production (e ) Recognizing the role of communities, youth, and Indigenous peoples in conservation. The theme highlights that biodiversity is not an isolated environmental issue but a foundation for economic growth, food security, public health, and climate resilience. World Biodiversity Day 2025 calls for collective action and shared responsibility, emphasizing that governments alone cannot address biodiversity loss—individuals, businesses, and communities must also play an active role.
By observing World Biodiversity Day on 29 December 2025, the global community reflects on progress made since the adoption of the CBD and renews its commitment to protecting Earth’s natural heritage. The significance of World Biodiversity Day 29 December 2025 include: (i) Raising Awareness About Biodiversity Loss- One of the most important aspects of World Biodiversity Day 2025 is raising awareness about the alarming rate of biodiversity loss. Habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, invasive species, and overexploitation are pushing many species toward extinction. This loss not only threatens wildlife but also undermines ecosystem stability and human well-being. The observance encourages people to understand the consequences of biodiversity loss and inspires action to protect endangered species and ecosystems. (ii) Promoting Conservation and Sustainable Use of Resources. World Biodiversity Day 2025 emphasizes the need for sustainable use of natural resources. Conservation does not mean stopping development but ensuring that development meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. Sustainable agriculture, responsible fishing, forest conservation, and eco-friendly industrial practices are essential for preserving biodiversity while supporting economic growth. (iii) Addressing Climate Change through Biodiversity Protection- Biodiversity and climate change are closely interconnected. Healthy ecosystems such as forests, wetlands, oceans, and grasslands absorb carbon dioxide and help regulate global climate. When these ecosystems are degraded, greenhouse gas emissions increase, intensifying climate change. World Biodiversity Day 2025 highlights nature-based solutions such as ecosystem restoration, afforestation, and conservation as effective tools to combat climate change and enhance climate resilience. (iv) Ensuring Food Security and Livelihoods- Biodiversity is the backbone of global food systems. Crop diversity, livestock breeds, fisheries, and pollinators ensure food security and nutritional diversity. Millions of people, especially in rural and coastal areas, depend directly on biodiversity for their livelihoods. The 2025 observance underscores the importance of protecting biodiversity to sustain agriculture, fisheries, and traditional livelihoods, particularly in vulnerable communities. (v) Supporting Human Health and Well-being- Many medicines and medical treatments are derived from plants, animals, and microorganisms. Biodiversity also plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of diseases by maintaining balanced ecosystems.World Biodiversity Day 2025 draws attention to the link between biodiversity and human health, emphasizing that protecting nature is essential for preventing future health crises. (vi) Recognizing Indigenous Knowledge and Cultural Values- Indigenous peoples and local communities have protected biodiversity for generations through traditional knowledge and sustainable practices. Their cultural identities are closely connected to nature. The significance of World Biodiversity Day 2025 lies in recognizing and respecting Indigenous rights and knowledge systems, ensuring their participation in biodiversity conservation efforts. (vii) Inspiring Youth and Future Generations- Educating young people about biodiversity is vital for long-term conservation. World Biodiversity Day 2025 encourages schools, colleges, and youth organizations to promote environmental education and inspire future leaders to protect the planet.Youth participation brings innovation, energy, and hope to biodiversity conservation initiatives. (viii) The Way Forward: Collective Responsibility for Biodiversity- World Biodiversity Day 29 December 2025 reminds us that protecting biodiversity is a shared global responsibility. Governments must strengthen environmental laws and implement international agreements. Businesses should adopt sustainable and nature-friendly practices. Individuals can contribute by conserving resources, reducing waste, planting trees, protecting wildlife, and supporting conservation initiatives.Small actions, when multiplied across millions of people, can create meaningful change. Protecting biodiversity today ensures a healthier, more resilient planet for tomorrow.World Biodiversity Day 2025, observed on 29 December, marks a historic reminder of humanity’s commitment to conserving life on Earth. It is a significant event because it raises awareness about the effect of human activity on biodiversity. Many human activities are toxic and can leave a negative impact on the biodiversity of our planet, threatening the existence of species. International Day for Biodiversity emphasizes the need for peaceful coexistence of species on Earth. Biodiversity loss can harm the health of the Earth in many ways as it is already leading to global warming and species extinction. The major religions of the world supports the conservation of natural biodiversity. According to Holy Quran, ‘There is not an animal (that lives) on the Earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you’ (Quran, Surah 13:15). Thus, Islam looks upon biodiversity as an expression of Allah’s wisdom and omnipotence and as support for human development. In brief, ethical approach to conserving biodiversity involves conserving biodiversity because each organism has an intrinsic value, and conserving it is our responsibility. We have a moral duty to pass on our biological legacy in good order to future generations. ( While Sabreena Bhat Research Scholar at S K University Of Agriculture Sciences & Technology, i.e, SKUAST-K, Dr Bilal A Bhat is Professor & Head (Agri. Econ & Statistics, FOA at S K University Of Agriculture Sciences & Technology Kashmir SKUAST-K, Srinagar, J&K. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the authors and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
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