This text is part of the special Le Petit D
You have no doubt heard of the COP15 which opens in a few days in Montreal. It is a meeting of heads of state from all over the world gathered to discuss the protection of biodiversity. But what exactly is biodiversity?
Biodiversity encompasses all forms of life on Earth. We talk about animal and plant species, and even their genes. We also talk about the variety of ecosystems that support life, such as marshes, forests, reefs or oceans. Scientists have listed 8.7 million species. Mammals have 6495. Birds are slightly more numerous. Next come reptiles and amphibians and finally fish. Plants occupy a large part of life on Earth, as do invertebrates, mainly insects: they constitute more than 75% of species on our planet!
Species at Risk
Have you ever seen those pictures of wild animals roaming around houses in the middle of town? It’s funny and rather abnormal. Because of human activity, we eat away at natural spaces and this causes an imbalance. The habitat of animals and plants is weakened, and certain species are thus endangered.
It is important to protect biodiversity because species interact with and depend on each other. Think of bumblebees, pollinating insects. By foraging, they move pollen from one plant to another, thus helping plants to reproduce. The flowers, fruits, vegetables and even the cereals you eat exist thanks to pollination. Also, did you know that a colony of 300 bats can eat up to 20 million insects in one summer? This is a natural predator that consumes several insect pests of crops and reduces the use of pesticides. Your stomach is better off! Yes, because the health of our species, human beings, is also intimately linked to that of other life forms on Earth.
Researchers in action
Behind the scenes of the Space for Life museums, 21 researchers from various fields work to conserve species at risk. These teams did not wait for COP15 to take action! They monitor and cultivate plants and participate in the reproduction of animal species in their laboratories. All this to hope to reintroduce them in nature. Their efforts have made it possible to restore the wood turtle and wild leek, two endangered species, to their natural environment.
To rise to the challenge
Everyone can take actions that help prevent the decline of biodiversity. Even you. We have a challenge within your reach: the Biodiversity Challenge.
Being in nature is good for your physical and mental health. You can observe nature at work in any season, whether in the forest, in a park or in your alley. This winter, sharpen your reflexes by noticing the subtle changes that occur. Afterwards, during your outings, take pictures of the small and large treasures that nature offers you. Then, share your findings with the other members of the challenge. You are thus helping to collect data that can be used by scientists.
So, do you want to act for biodiversity? We are waiting for you spaceforlife.ca/biodiversity-challenge.
This special content was produced by the Special Publications team of the To have to, pertaining to marketing. The drafting of To have to did not take part.