A new World Bank database to support a new era in biodiversity conservation
Publication year
Resource type
UNCCD Library
Material Type
Web resource
Biodiversity conservation is vital for sustainable development, poverty alleviation, and a livable planet. It sustains ecosystems that support human livelihoods, particularly in developing nations, by providing essential resources like food, clean water, and climate stability. Healthy ecosystems are crucial for agriculture, fishing, and forestry, which reduce poverty and foster sustainable economic growth. Additionally, biodiversity fuels industries such as ecotourism and pharmaceuticals, generating jobs and income. Maintaining biodiversity strengthens ecosystem resilience, stabilizes climate, and mitigates climate change impacts, making it key to environmental health and global sustainability.
But, the world is losing biodiversity at an alarming rate. Despite growing awareness of our reliance on nature, the planet faces a severe biodiversity crisis, with one million species nearing extinction and extinction rates 1,000 times above the natural rate. A IPBES report highlights the urgent need for action, echoing findings from the Living Planet Index, which shows a 68% decline in global biodiversity since 1970.
But, the world is losing biodiversity at an alarming rate. Despite growing awareness of our reliance on nature, the planet faces a severe biodiversity crisis, with one million species nearing extinction and extinction rates 1,000 times above the natural rate. A IPBES report highlights the urgent need for action, echoing findings from the Living Planet Index, which shows a 68% decline in global biodiversity since 1970.
Keywords
biodiversity conservation
facts and figures
ecosystems resilience
environmental health