Biodiversity impacts on every aspect of our lives and there are economic, practical and aesthetic reasons
for conserving biodiversity.
Biodiversity contributes to the livelihood of
many.
It is fundamental to agriculture,
forestry, tourism and industry.
Genetic diversity of
crops is important for ensuring resistance to disease,
pests and to a changing environment.
Both genetic
and species diversity allow life to exist in a wide range of environmental conditions.
Biodiversity contributes to a healthier
environment.
Biodiversity at habitat and
ecosystem level helps to maintain the natural processes
on which all life depends.
For example, reed beds and
other aquatic communities can effectively remove
heavy metals and organic pollution from unclean
water, trees and plants provide oxygen and saltmarshes
help to prevent coastal erosion.
Biodiversity
is important in natural processes such as:
carbon cycling and oxygen production
nutrient cycling and the decomposition of organic
matter and toxins
climate regulation
water storage and purification
regulation of water flow, evaporation and
temperature
maintenance of soil structure and fertility.
Biodiversity contributes to a better quality
of life and it is integral to our mental and
physical health.
We are reliant on plants, fungi and
animals for our food and for many of our medicines,
clothes, furniture and buildings.
We all benefit from
seeing the delicate beauty of a wild flower or an
awe-inspiring natural landscape.
Such splendour
helps shape our culture and inspires our poets, painters, writers and composers.
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Biodiversity impacts on every aspect of our lives and there are economic, practical and aesthetic reasons
for conserving biodiversity.
