Biodiversity and our responsibility

Biodiversity is the foundation of life on Earth. It provides us with oxygen, food, medicine, and climate stability. Yet, we are witnessing its alarming decline due to human activities-urbanisation, deforestation, pollution, illegal hunting, and climate change. The consequences are far-reaching, not just for ecosystems, but for human survival.
Forests, wetlands, oceans, and polar regions each hold unique biodiversity, playing vital roles in maintaining ecological balance. From pollination and water purification to protection against floods and erosion, nature performs invaluable services. But when we destroy habitats, pollute air and water, or introduce invasive species, we disturb this balance. Species are disappearing at an unprecedented rate, and with each loss, the chain of life is weakened.
This crisis has direct impacts on us. Food security is threatened when pollinators vanish or crops fail due to biodiversity loss. Forest loss increases flood risks. Medicinal resources, many of which come from plants and animals, are lost before they are even discovered. Reduced biodiversity affects livelihoods, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and many local economies depend on it.
This is not a problem for governments alone. Protecting biodiversity requires collective action. Awareness is the first step. Schools and media must promote the importance of biodiversity. Governments should enforce environmental laws, expand protected areas, and promote eco-friendly development. Shifting to renewable energy, adopting sustainable farming, and restoring damaged ecosystems are essential. As individuals, we can help too by reducing plastic use, conserving water and energy, planting trees, and respecting wildlife. International cooperation is equally vital through shared research, conservation programmes and knowledge exchange. Let us act now to preserve the delicate web of life. A future where humans and nature thrive together is still possible, if we take responsibility today.

Sadia Sultana Rimi, Student, Department of Mathematics
Jagannath University
sadia15.jnu@gmail.com