Biodiversity Conservation: Preserving Ecosystems for Future Generations

BY: PRATHAM GOLCHA

Encompassing varied life forms, right from microscopic microorganisms to bulging trees, biodiversity is the thread that holds all the life forms together. Biodiversity isn’t just limited to providing ecosystems to humans and all living beings, but it also provides enrichment to our lives in a thousand different ways. The biodiversity loss, however, due to human actions, is of critical concern over the past few decades, and the situation has exposed the vulnerabilities significantly. We need to preserve it not just for this generation, but also for the years and generations to come.Biodiversity is a wide term that includes the very basis of healthy ecosystems, which supports a range of ecological processes which are absolutely critical for life to sustain on earth. In order to maintain the balance of ecosystems, the role of each and every species is important, no matter how diminutive or small it might be. For instance, coral reefs support fisheries and protect coastlines from natural disasters. Moreover, a myriad of plant species contribute significantly to the fertility and health of the soil, thereby preventing soil erosion. These examples go on to show how small, inconspicuous species can actually act as a wall against a host of issues and disasters. All we need to do is be aware, and conserve them judiciously.Previously, medicines derived from plants used to help stave off diseases and ailments successfully, ancient Indian Ayurveda being a prime example. A host of spiritual practices, traditional methods, cultural ways, and art have been tied to biodiversity since ancient times, aesthetically and potentially. Biodiversity loss equates to also a loss of our well-being, heritage and traditions, which have been passed on since generations. An inseparable part of our society and living, we do not even realize how the tiniest of everyday life’s happenings are tied with biodiversity. Bio-diversity, as the name suggests, is something that is a source in living and co-existing in itself. Necessitating urgent and quick action, biodiversity loss equates to a grave crisis globally, with the question of sustainability and climate-neutrality being in doubt. Not only does it support human activities and those of the living organisms, it is also a source of supporting and forming micro and macro economies of nations.Biodiversity is under a huge clout of threat, more than ever before, and it needs our collective attention, planning and action. With the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (Agenda 2030) taking a hit considerably, during and post-Covid-19, it is imperative more than ever before to keep biodiversity in our talks and planning. With India now being declared the world’s third most polluted nation, and Delhi the world’s most polluted Capital, the onus is on us for collective action for not just our nation, but the region, continent, and the world, as a whole. Going by the reports of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), around one million species are at risk of extinction, many within decades, with the current continuing trends.Adopting a multi-faceted and coordinated effort, along with a grass-root planning is quintessential to get the ball rolling as far as biodiversity conservation is concerned. The creation and effective management of protected areas, national parks, wildlife reserves, and marine sanctuaries play an inseparable role in protecting biodiversity by preserving ecosystems in their natural state and providing refuge for endangered species. For long-term sustainability and a steady success rate, it is imperative to involve indigenous communities, employ local techniques of conservation, and keep stakeholders abreast of the dwindling situation. Preserving the environment and biodiversity requires a multi-pronged approach. Authorities, as well as the people need to have consolidated action in unison in order to make the results favorable over a period of time.