International Day for Biological Diversity

International Day for Biological Diversity History

The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) is a global initiative that aims to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity, its conservation, and sustainable development. This day encourages greater understanding and appreciation of the vital role that biodiversity plays in ensuring the wellbeing of communities and ecosystems worldwide.

Australia is a country of immense biodiversity, with unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on the planet. This rich biological diversity provides countless economic, social, and cultural benefits. Australia faces significant challenges in preserving its native species and habitats, with many threatened by climate change, habitat loss, and invasive species. Australians can use this occasion to reflect on the importance of conserving and sustainably managing their country's remarkable natural heritage for future generations.

In recognition of the IDB, Australians typically participate in various events and initiatives aimed at promoting public engagement with biodiversity conservation. These activities may include environmental workshops, community tree plantings, guided nature walks, or educational seminars. The International Day for Biological Diversity is commemorated on the 22nd of May each year, providing an opportunity for Australians to learn about their unique natural heritage and join efforts to preserve it for generations to come.

Facts about Biological Diversity

• Scientists estimate that there are anywhere between 8.7 million to 30 million species on Earth. However, only about 1.5 million species have been identified and classified thus far.
• Despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor, coral reefs are estimated to be home to 25% of all marine species.
• Habitat degradation and the loss of biodiversity is a threat to the livelihood of over 1 billion people who live in dry and subhumid climates.
• Australia's oldest living ecosystem, the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland, is over 135 million years old. The rainforest is home to a wide range of unique species, including the Southern Cassowary and the endangered Bennett's Tree-kangaroo.
• Australia is home to over 500,000 native species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Day for Biological Diversity

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Spread awareness on social media by using the hashtags #InternationalDayForBiologicalDiversity, #IDBD and #BiologicalDiversity.
• Join the international Day for Biological Diversity Google Hangout where you can video stream yourself and with other people to discuss biological diversity with like-minded individuals.
• Watch a movie about biological diversity in Australia. Here are our top picks:
  1. Wildest Islands: Australia's Wild Top End (2016): This documentary takes viewers on a journey through some of the most biodiverse regions of northern Australia.
  2. Australia's Predator CSI: Marsupial Carnage (2014): This documentary examines the challenges faced by Australia's unique marsupial predators and how they have adapted to survive in their environments.
  3. Australia's Great Barrier Reef (2014): A documentary exploring the natural wonder of the world's largest coral reef system.
• Read a book about the biological diversity in Australia. Here are our top picks:
  1. Field Guide to the Birds of Australia by Ken Simpson and Nicolas Day
  2. Wildlife of Australia by Iain Campbell, Sam Woods, and Nick Leseberg
  3. The Complete Guide to Finding the Mammals of Australia by David Andrew