P. A. Chacko
This year’s theme is: Biological diversity and sustainable development
Biodiversity is understood as the the total variety of life on earth.
Biologists define biodiversity as ” the totality of genes, species and eco system.”
Today man is speaking of creating green corridors, peopling cities with trees and plants, decorating balconies of high rise buildings with miniscule hanging gardens etc. These are attempts to bring back at least a semblance of green cover back to places which were once verdant greenery. Even an ant has an important role to play in biological diversity.
Some, advocating sustainable development, speak of the need for improving air quality by protecting whatever is left of biodiversity.
Or protecting the environment for the supply of good and usable water by improving biodiversity. Or preserving or improving soil quality by improving bioldiversity.
In a fast forward consumerist world people are cautioned to check on their greed for overconsumption, and attack on nature’s resources.
Our human predatory habits have wrought havoc on biodiversity. Destruction of green cover and forest, pollution of water sources and waterways, harm done to animals, birds, insects, fishes, amphibians etc. are manmade war on biodiversity.
We need to protect and promote biodiversity not just for the preservation of the human species. We need to respect the right of existence of all species. For the health of the universe and particularly of mother earth our concern and active care are imperative.
Let us not be predators but promoters of healthy biodiversity. Live and let live!