What has this got to do with me?

Biological diversity (biodiversity) is the basis of life for all living creatures – including you. This is because the various ecosystems, with their many different species of animals, plants and fungi, are interconnected. Intact and species-rich ecosystems provide a wide range of services: they supply important raw materials, ensure fertile soils, clean drinking water and clean air. Unfortunately, an estimated 130 to 150 species are currently dying out every day and our ecosystems are under serious threat.

 

Of course, it is extremely important that governments respond to the biodiversity crisis. However, each and every one of us can contribute to the preservation of biodiversity through our own actions in everyday life. This can start with small steps and become more and more extensive over time. We can also motivate other people to join in.

Mural by Onur & Wes21 in Reykjavik – Wall Poetry 2016 event 

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Everyone can contribute

The first step is always to be open-minded. Then we can take conscious, sustainable action. For example, we can:
  • Rethink our own consumption habits. Do we really need all of this? Can we repair and reuse items, share/swap them with others or, if necessary, do without them altogether?
  • Choose local products  and look for labels that certify sustainable and fair production.
  • Eat more plants – your body will thank you!
  • Use public transport and more sustainable forms of mobility, thereby replacing air travel.
  • Check our electricity providers and use sustainable energy, i.e. green electricity (e.g. solar, wind).
  • Design our gardens and balconies in such a way that as many different native animal and plant species as possible feel at home there.
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Consuming more consciously also leads to living more consciously, which in turn makes you happier. Give it a try!

By consuming more consciously, you not only protect the environment and save money – it also leads to greater mindfulness in everyday life and can thus increase your well-being in the long term. Give it a try and pay attention to the origin, quality and necessity of your purchases.

 

The biodiversity you protect also has a positive effect on your mental health. Experiencing nature, observing wildlife or inhaling the terpenes emitted by trees promotes physical and, in particular, mental well-being.

References:
1) United Nations Transforming our world: The 2030 Agenda for sustainable development, A/RES/70/1
2) Bundesamt für Naturschutz, Biologische Vielfalt in Deutschland

3) Convention on Biological Diversity

4) Homepage des Bundesministeriums für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (BMZ): Ökosystemleistungen

5) Leibniz-Forschungsnetzwerk Biodiversität, Leibniz-Biodiversität