By Dr. Meghna Sarma
The United Nations has designated May 22 as the International Day for Biological Diversity to promote greater understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. In December 2000, the United Nations General Assembly officially adopted this observance to commemorate the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity on May 22, 1992, through the Nairobi Final Act of the Conference for the Adoption of the Agreed Text of the Convention on Biological Diversity.
Biodiversity encompasses genetic variation within species and the interactions between living organisms and their natural environment.Biological resources form the foundation of human civilisation. Fish provide nearly 20 percent of the animal protein consumed by around 3 billion people worldwide, while plants contribute more than 80 percent of the human diet. As the global community re-examines its relationship with nature, one fact remains clear: despite rapid technological progress, humanity continues to depend entirely on healthy and thriving ecosystems for essential needs such as water, food, medicine, clothing, fuel, shelter, and energy.
Biodiversity is declining at an unprecedented rate. Nearly three-quarters of the Earth’s land-based environment and about 66 percent of the marine environment have been significantly altered by human activities. Today, almost one million plant and animal species are at risk of extinction. Factors such as climate change, pollution, overexploitation of natural resources, invasive species, and rapid urbanisation are driving this global crisis.Addressing this challenge requires us to respect, protect, and restore our biological wealth. The loss of biodiversity threatens all forms of life, including human health.
The International Day for Biological Diversity serves as a global call to action, urging people to transform the way they live and reconnect with nature. UNESCO, the only United Nations agency with a dedicated mandate in science, is at the forefront of global efforts to protect biodiversity by strengthening the link between science, nature, and culture.
The International Day for Biological Diversity 2026 is being observed under the theme “Acting Locally for Global Impact,” which highlights the importance of local environmental action and community-led conservation efforts. The theme reminds us that global environmental recovery begins with individual and local responsibility.The success of global efforts to reverse biodiversity loss depends greatly on the strength of local initiatives and the collective commitment of communities, organisations, and governments working together. Today, nearly one million of the world’s estimated eight million species are threatened with extinction. However, hope remains alive, as continuous efforts are being made around the world to restore ecosystems that serve as vital habitats and refuges for endangered species.
In Meghalaya, the International Day for Biological Diversity is observed annually through state-level events and various grassroots programmes conducted across all districts by the Meghalaya Biodiversity Board and the Meghalaya Forest Department. These initiatives include awareness campaigns, competitions, and workshops aimed at promoting the conservation of the state’s rich agricultural and ecological biodiversity.
International Biodiversity Day can be celebrated by taking meaningful actions to protect nature and preserve the planet’s rich biological heritage. Individuals and communities can contribute by helping to end the commercial exploitation of animals, supporting marine biodiversity conservation, reducing factory farming and greenhouse gas emissions, and protecting wildlife and natural ecosystems around the world. Supporting organisations that work towards animal welfare and biodiversity conservation can also make a positive impact in safeguarding the environment for future generations.
(The author is a Subject Matter Specialist, Agronomy at the ICAR, KVK, Ri-Bhoi, ICAR Complex for NEH Region, Umiam)
