International Day for Biological Diversity 2025: Embracing Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development

-

The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB), observed annually on May 22, is a United Nations–sanctioned day dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of biodiversity issues. In 2025, the theme is "Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development," emphasizing the integral role of biodiversity in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the objectives of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

Origins and Significance

Established in 1993, the IDB originally commemorated the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on December 29. However, in 2000, the date was shifted to May 22 to mark the day the CBD was adopted at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992. The CBD is a multilateral treaty with three main goals: the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources.

2025 Theme: Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development

The 2025 theme underscores the necessity of integrating biodiversity considerations into all aspects of sustainable development. It highlights the interconnectedness between the KMGBF and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, advocating for a unified approach to environmental conservation and human well-being .

The campaign aims to:

  • Bolster public awareness of biodiversity's centrality to life on Earth and its role in addressing socio-economic challenges such as poverty and inequality.

  • Encourage the rapid preparation and implementation of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) aligned with the KMGBF and integrated into national sustainable development strategies.

  • Instill a sense of urgency and advocate for accelerated action to halt and reverse biodiversity loss.

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) is a landmark international agreement adopted in December 2022 during the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). It sets the global biodiversity agenda through 2030 and aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss.

Objectives of the KMGBF

The framework is built upon four long-term Goals for 2050 and 23 Action-Oriented Targets for 2030. The overall vision is:

"Living in harmony with nature by 2050"

Here are the main objectives and components:

Four 2050 Goals

  1. Goal A: Biodiversity Protection and Recovery

    • Increase the integrity, connectivity, and resilience of all ecosystems.

    • Halt human-induced extinction of species and reduce extinction risk.

  2. Goal B: Sustainable Use

    • Biodiversity is sustainably used and managed.

    • Nature’s contributions to people are maintained and enhanced.

  3. Goal C: Benefit Sharing

    • Fair and equitable sharing of benefits from the use of genetic resources.

    • Respect for the traditional knowledge of Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

  4. Goal D: Resource Mobilization

    • Adequate means of implementation, including financial resources, capacity-building, and technology transfer.

23 Targets for 2030 (Selected Highlights)

Some of the most important targets include:

  • Target 1: Bring 30% of degraded ecosystems under effective restoration.

  • Target 3: Protect at least 30% of the world’s land and 30% of marine areas ("30x30 target").

  • Target 5: Eliminate, phase out, or reform harmful subsidies by at least $500 billion per year.

  • Target 7: Reduce pollution from excess nutrients, pesticides, and plastics to safe levels.

  • Target 10: Ensure sustainable management of agriculture, aquaculture, and forestry.

  • Target 15: Encourage large businesses to assess and disclose biodiversity risks and impacts.

  • Target 18: Respect and protect Indigenous and local knowledge, innovations, and practices.

  • Target 19: Mobilize at least $200 billion per year for biodiversity from public and private sources.

Why KMGBF Is Important

  • It is the biodiversity equivalent of the Paris Agreement for climate change.

  • It aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

  • It places a major emphasis on the rights of Indigenous Peoples, equity, and gender inclusion.

  • It provides a clear framework for national and international biodiversity action.

Global Events and Initiatives

Numerous events are organized worldwide to commemorate IDB 2025:

  • United Nations Event in Geneva: At the Palais des Nations, key findings from two landmark scientific reports by the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) will be presented, fostering discussions on addressing environmental changes and inequalities .

  • ICIMOD Webinar: The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) will host an online event focusing on financing biodiversity conservation in the Hindu Kush Himalaya region, emphasizing the alignment of development practices with biodiversity conservation.

  • CGIAR Celebrations: The CGIAR will highlight the importance of agrobiodiversity in building resilient food systems and promoting environmental health, reaffirming the global commitment to protecting biodiversity.

Participation and Resources

The CBD Secretariat invites participation from all sectors, including governments, academia, civil society, and individuals. Resources such as logos, toolkits, and communication materials are available in multiple languages to facilitate engagement. Participants are encouraged to share their biodiversity stories and initiatives using the hashtag #BiodiversityDay.

Looking Ahead

As we approach the 2030 deadline for the SDGs and the KMGBF targets, the 2025 IDB serves as a pivotal moment to reflect on progress and galvanize action. It is a call to harmonize our relationship with nature, ensuring that biodiversity conservation is at the heart of sustainable development efforts.

Location: India

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Labubu and Blind‑Box Culture: Environmental Damage and Psychological Addiction

-
Image
Labubu, the fang-toothed collectible elf from Pop Mart’s blind-box series, has become an international sensation. Yet behind its whimsical design lies a deeper story one of engineered scarcity, wasteful consumption, addiction-like behaviors, and mounting environmental impact. Environmental Footprint: Plastic Pollution & Carbon Cost Each Labubu figurine is crafted from a mix of PVC, ABS and polyester   materials that resist biodegradation and break down into microplastics over decades. According to the South China Morning Post , one typical model contains approximately 36% polyester, 35% PVC, and 29% ABS . PVC in particular leaches toxic compounds, while ABS manufacturing emits nearly 3 kg CO₂ per kg produced. Packaging & Overproduction: Waste Built into the Experience Furthermore, blind-box packaging multiplies the environmental toll: glossy cardboard box, foil pouch, plastic insert discarded immediately after opening. These single-use layers drive up estimated plastic p...
Read more

Synergistic Pollution Effects: A Hidden Multiplier of Global Environmental Harm

-
Image
In the real world, pollutants do not occur in isolation. Human bodies, ecosystems, and communities are exposed to  multiple pollutants simultaneously,  from pesticides in food to heavy metals in water, from urban smog to industrial chemicals. These combined exposures often result in  synergistic pollution effects,  where the total harm is  greater than the sum  of the individual pollutant effects. Synergy  in pollution refers to interactions between multiple pollutants (or stressors) that amplify toxicity or damage. Unlike additive effects (1 + 1 = 2),  synergistic effects are multiplicative,   where (1 + 1) might equal 3, 10, or more in terms of biological harm or ecosystem disruption. synergistic effects Common Synergistic Pollution Combinations & Studies Air Pollutants + Heat / Other Pollutants Laboratory studies show  synergy in ozone combined with PM, NO₂, or VOCs , though often at high concentrations. In many cases, combined ex...
Read more

Artificial Light Pollution and Its Impact on Insects

-
Image
The spread of artificial lighting has transformed human life, creating a world where activities are possible around the clock. However, while artificial light is beneficial to human activities, it brings significant ecological consequences, especially for insects. Artificial Light Pollution Artificial light pollution, defined as the excessive or misdirected artificial light in the environment, has become one of the most pervasive forms of pollution globally. Sources range from streetlights, buildings, and vehicles to industrial installations and advertising lights. The effects of artificial light extend beyond urban boundaries, often impacting ecosystems at large. Artificial light pollution has three main types: Glare : Excessive brightness that causes visual discomfort. Skyglow : The brightening of the night sky over populated areas. Light Trespass : Unwanted or misdirected light that spills into natural habitats. Why Insects Are Vulnerable to Artificial Light Insects rely heavily ...
Read more

Mycotoxins and Food Security in India: The Climate Change Connection

-
Image
As climate change intensifies, its effects on food security and safety are becoming a critical concern worldwide, particularly due to the rising prevalence of mycotoxins in agricultural regions. In India, where diverse agro-climatic zones, seasonal monsoons, and rising temperatures converge, the impact of climate change is especially pronounced. These climate variations create ideal conditions for the growth of mycotoxin-producing molds, which pose significant risks to food crops, livestock, and human health. Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by specific molds (fungi) that can contaminate crops, food, and animal feeds. Each type of mycotoxin has distinct characteristics, sources, and potential health impacts. Below are some of the most common types: Aflatoxins Produced By : Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus . Common Sources : Maize, peanuts, tree nuts, spices, and grains. Health Impacts : Highly carcinogenic, particularly linked to liver cancer. They can also cause ...
Read more

The Intersection of Sustainability and Mental Health: How Green Spaces Enhance Well-Being

-
Image
Green spaces, such as parks, forests, and urban gardens, play a crucial role in maintaining both environmental sustainability and mental health. Historically, urban planning has integrated green spaces to enhance livability, with early examples including the gardens of ancient Persia and the public parks movement in 19th-century Europe and North America.  As cities expand and urbanization accelerates, preserving and integrating green spaces into urban planning becomes vital for well-being. Numerous studies have established a strong connection between access to green environments and improved mental and physical health. Green Spaces and Mental Health Benefits Stress Reduction and Psychological Restoration Exposure to green spaces significantly reduces stress and promotes relaxation. The "Vitamin G" study highlights that looking at or being in nature reduces stress levels by lowering cortisol, the primary stress hormone (Groenewegen et al., 2006). Additionally, natural en...
Read more

Legal Dispute Over Mandatory Use of Jute Bags: Navigating the Crossroads of Environment, Economy, and Industry

-
Image
India’s jute industry is not just a manufacturing sector-it’s a cultural, economic, and environmental asset. With its origins deeply rooted in eastern India, particularly West Bengal, Assam, and Bihar , jute has been hailed as the “ golden fibre ” for its versatility, biodegradability, and rural employment potential. Yet, in recent years, the mandatory use of jute bags for packaging sugar and food grains under the Jute Packaging Materials (Compulsory Use in Packing Commodities) Act, 1987 (JPM Act) has sparked intense legal and industrial conflicts . Stakeholders are divided-some seeing it as a lifeline for a declining industry, others viewing it as an outdated economic burden. The government argues that the policy supports the traditional jute industry, while sugar producers claim it results in extra costs and raises contamination risks.   A ruling from the High Court in Karnataka is expected soon. The Legal Dispute: Economic Feasibility vs Environmental Responsibility The hea...
Read more

International Vulture Awareness Day: The Critical Role of Vultures in the Environment and the Impact of Their Decline

-
Image
Every year, on the first Saturday of September , International Vulture Awareness Day is observed to highlight the crucial role vultures play in ecosystems and to raise awareness of the threats they face. Vultures, often overlooked due to their association with death and decay, are in fact vital for maintaining ecological balance. Their rapid decline in many parts of the world has raised alarm about the cascading effects on the environment. Ecological Importance of Vultures Vultures are obligate scavengers, feeding almost exclusively on carrion (dead animals). This diet makes them essential in preventing the spread of diseases by efficiently cleaning up carcasses. Without vultures, decaying bodies of animals could linger in the environment, leading to the spread of harmful bacteria such as anthrax, rabies, and botulism, which are fatal to both wildlife and humans. Key ecological roles of vultures include: 1. Disease Regulation: Vultures act as nature’s sanitation workers. Their highly a...
Read more

Advances in Membrane Technology for Carbon Capture and Environmental Sustainability

-
Image
Membrane technology has rapidly emerged as a transformative approach to carbon capture, presenting an efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable solution for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. In the face of the escalating global climate crisis, largely driven by CO₂ emissions from industrial processes and fossil fuel combustion, carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies have become essential. Among these, membrane-based carbon capture stands out due to its modular design, low energy requirements, and economic advantage over conventional methods like amine scrubbing. Recent advancements in materials science and engineering have led to the development of high-performance membranes that offer enhanced selectivity, durability, and energy efficiency.  Types of Membranes in Carbon Capture 1. Polymeric Membranes Polymeric membranes are the most established type for gas separation, widely used due to their ease of processing and lower costs. These membranes rely on se...
Read more

Electric Toothbrushes: Balancing Personal Care and Environmental Impact

-
Image
An electric toothbrush is a battery-powered device that uses rapid bristle motions either back-and-forth or rotating-oscillating to clean teeth effectively. The bristle movements are driven by a motor for sonic speeds or by a piezoelectric crystal for ultrasonic motions. These brushes are typically rechargeable, using inductive charging while resting on a charging base. Electric toothbrushes are categorized by their movement frequency: power brushes operate below the audible range, sonic brushes within the audible range (20–20,000 Hz), and ultrasonic brushes above the audible range, with up to 2,400,000 movements per minute. History The first electric toothbrush, the Motodent, was created by Tomlinson Moseley in 1937. In 1954, Dr. Philippe Guy Woog invented the Broxodent in Switzerland, designed for patients with limited motor skills and orthodontic needs, which entered the U.S. market in 1960 through E.R. Squibb and Sons. In the early 1960s, General Electric introduced a cordless, re...
Read more

Addressing Antibiotic Pollution: WHO's First-Ever Guidance and its Global Implications

-
Image
In a groundbreaking move, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first-ever guidance aimed at reducing antibiotic pollution from pharmaceutical manufacturing processes. This guidance comes at a crucial time, as the world battles the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a phenomenon where bacteria evolve to resist the drugs designed to kill them, making infections increasingly difficult to treat. The Growing Threat of Antibiotic Pollution and AMR Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most significant public health challenges today. While overuse and misuse of antibiotics in healthcare and agriculture are primary drivers of AMR, another major contributor is the pollution caused by antibiotic production facilities. When antibiotic residues from manufacturing plants are released into the environment-especially in wastewater and solid waste-they can promote the growth of resistant bacteria. These resistant strains can spread globally through air, water, and human ...
Read more