Madrid, Spain
BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY DAY
The International Day for Biological Diversity, celebrated each year on May 22nd, aims to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. Which commemorates the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in 1992.
Biodiversity is the living fabric of our planet. It underpins human well-being in the present and in the future, and its rapid decline threatens nature and people alike. According to the latest Global Assessment by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), human activities are driving biodiversity loss at an unprecedented rate. However, the assessment also indicated that solutions existed and that it was not too late to act.
Scientists estimate that there are at least 8 million species of plants and animals living on earth today, including humans. The ecosystems in which these species live are incredible. Humans are immersed in ecosystems and depend on these interconnected networks of plants, animals, and people. However, human activities are significantly impacting ecosystems, for instance through man-made climate change, pollution, and habitat loss.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, as well as the ecosystems they form. It is essential for maintaining ecological balance, providing food, medicine, and clean air. However, biodiversity is under constant threat due to deforestation, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change, leading to the loss of many species and disruption of natural ecosystems.
Raising awareness about biodiversity issues is crucial to preventing further environmental degradation. Education and conservation programs help people understand the importance of protecting natural habitats and preserving endangered species. Governments, organizations, and individuals must take proactive steps to reduce harmful activities and promote sustainable practices.
Relationship between biodiversity and architecture:
The impact that architecture has upon ecosystems, both at the building and further afield, is enormous. Architects impact upon biodiversity in five main ways:
- Decisions regarding roofs, walls and landscapes
- Materials used in construction: their sourcing, assembly and disposal
- Resource needed to sustain buildings
- Adverse effects of buildings regarding water and air pollution
- Conservation and rehabilitation of existing structures
We can consider these 5 factors either in isolation or as a compound system.
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