Welcome to the celebration of biodiversity!
Dear nature lovers, today is May 22 – the International Day of Biological Diversity, and the best celebration in the world is taking place in the Global Framework for Biodiversity “Kunming-Montreal” – or so-called. “The Paris Agreement, but about nature”. We know it’s hard to say, but trust us, this is a big deal for our planet and all the amazing creatures it’s home to. So, put on your dancing (or hiking) shoes, grab your friends, and let’s go together for this celebration of biodiversity!
Partnerships for a Better Planet
Just as celebrations need more than one person to be fun, protecting our planet’s biodiversity also requires teamwork. That’s why the UN agreement “Kunming-Montreal” represents the bringing together of countries, communities, and even different species, to strive for one common goal – saving the incredible biodiversity of our planet Earth!
Imagine a party where everyone brings their unique talents, from the DJ spinning the music to the foodies whipping up delicious snacks. Similarly, within the protection of biodiversity, each country has something to offer, from its natural resources to special knowledge and expertise.
Our planet is a living and diverse community where every plant, animal, and human has a role to play, and biodiversity is like the secret ingredient that makes this community thrive.
However, in Serbia, everywhere in the world, we face serious challenges, such as climate change, pollution, and habitat loss, which can disrupt this delicate balance of nature.
That role is assumed by the “Kunming-Montreal” framework for biodiversity, which brings together everyone – national and local governments, the business sector, civil society, and individuals, to take action together and protect the biodiversity of our country and the world.
So what is the purpose of this celebration?
The Kunming-Montreal framework has ambitious but necessary goals. The first goal is to protect(us) at least 30% of land and sea areas by 2030. This means that this total area should be protected natural areas and set aside as nature reserves, where plants, animals, and even fungi can thrive undisturbed.
Another goal is to ensure the use of natural resources in a sustainable manner, without harming the environment or putting any species at risk. It’s like when at a party everyone cleans up after themselves and doesn’t leave a mess!
The framework also calls for sustainable practices in areas such as agriculture, fisheries, and urban development. It’s like everyone bringing healthy and organic dishes to a celebration to share with the company.
What can YOU do to get involved in this important and fun celebration?
Well, just as any party is only as fun as the guests are, protecting our planet’s biodiversity requires everyone to do their part. Here are a few ways in which we in Serbia can contribute to this world celebration of biodiversity:
1. Educate yourself: Learn about the incredible diversity of living things and the challenges they face. The more we know, the better equipped we are to make a positive contribution.
2. Support efforts to preserve the diversity of life: Get involved in local organizations that work to protect nature and its inhabitants. Whether it’s volunteering at a wildlife rescue center or planting trees in your community, every little action counts.
3. Be a responsible consumer: Choose sustainable products, support local farmers, and opt for eco-friendly options whenever possible. Remember, every purchase we make has an impact on the environment.
4. Spread the word! Share your knowledge and enthusiasm for biodiversity with friends, and family, and on social media. Inspire others to join the action, love nature, and become its loyal fans.
Together!
And just as a celebration is more fun with friends, the Kunming-Montreal framework is more effective when countries, organizations, and individuals work together.
With this idea, we designed our five-year project in Serbia, which is supported by the American Agency for International Development – USAID, called “Together for the Environment”.
Together – decision makers from national to local level, the business sector, civil society, and individuals – we can pool our resources, share our knowledge, and achieve greater results than working alone. Let’s learn a lesson from nature and celebrate the diversity of life on our planet together – to protect it more effectively for future generations.
Join the fun with enthusiasm, partnership, and a big dose of ambition.
It’s natural together! See you!
Authors: Stevan Vujasinović and Milica Đerić
Belgrade Open School
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