The theme for the 2019 International Day for Biological Diversity is: ‘Our Biodiversity, Our Food, Our Health’ (see last year’s theme here). The 2019 theme highlights the interconnectedness of biodiversity with health and food systems. It celebrates biological and cultural diversity through food and health systems.
In his message to mark the day, Mr António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, notes that:
‘…The world’s current food system is increasingly broken. Billions of people lack access to proper nutrition. Approximately one-third of what is produced is lost or wasted. The ways in which we grow, process, transport, consume and waste food are leading causes of biodiversity loss, while also contributing to climate change.
We must act quickly to reverse these trends and promote transformative change. Solutions exist. By halting environmentally harmful practices, diversifying our food systems and promoting more sustainable production and consumption patterns, we can improve global health, increase food security and strengthen resilience to climate change….I urge all — governments, businesses and civil society — to take urgent action to protect and sustainably manage the fragile and vital web of life on our one and only planet.’
Similarly, Dr Christiana Pasca Palmer, the Executive Secretary, United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), explains that:
‘…As biodiversity continues to decline, so too does the agroecosystems and the knowledge systems that nurture traditional foods….. These challenges are really daunting, but solutions also exist and we know that with broad actions we can overcome all these threats. The links between biodiversity, ecosystems, and the provision of benefits to human health are deeply entrenched in our global commitments to curb biodiversity loss and climate change and also serve as crucial entry points for achieving of the Sustainable Development Goals.
…. Cross-sectoral action, steadfast commitment across all scales of governance and throughout the whole of the food chain is much needed. This includes conserving land and water resources used for food production; reducing the contamination of drinking water; safeguarding and restoring our agricultural landscapes and seascapes; implementing measures that support the production and consumption of healthy foods rich in vitamins and minerals; and also, very importantly, supporting traditional food cultures and knowledge.’
The CBD invites everyone to take action and make positive changes to safeguard biodiversity. Initiatives can be contributed to the Sharm El-Sheikh to Kunming Action Agenda for Nature and People through registration on the CBD website.
For more on the CBD and the International Day of Biodiversity, see here.
