Biodiversity

Why is it necessary to preserve biological diversity in the world and in Latvia?

Is biological diversity really endangered in Latvia as well?

Why is biodiversity important to each of us?

We are currently living in a time when the world’s biological diversity is decreasing at an unprecedented rate – this includes both species, habitats and genetic diversity. Currently, about 1 million species of animals and plants are threatened with extinction, many of them already in the next few decades. The number of terrestrial species has decreased by at least 20% since 1900. More than 40% of amphibian species, about 10% of insect species, almost 33% of corals and more than a third of marine mammals are threatened. In total, at least 680 vertebrate species have disappeared since the 16th century.

Also in Latvia, where there is an apparently green and natural environment, many negative trends can be observed. The nature census or habitat inventory report (2023) shows that in the last 30 years, grassland habitats have decreased most rapidly in Latvia, not even reaching 1% of the country’s territory, only 10% of the forests are biologically valuable, almost half of the swamps have been transformed and affected by human activities, more than 2/3 of freshwater habitats have been affected, making the water cycle difficult;coastal habitats are negatively affected by the spread of invasive species, construction and anthropogenic load.

The main reasons for the loss of biodiversity are our approach to land use and its changes – agricultural and forestry practices, climate change, and the rise of invasive species. Biodiversity is also affected by pollution and overuse of natural resources.

By losing biodiversity, we lose ecosystem stability, the ability to adapt to change and continue to exist. We are losing the diversity and aesthetic value of landscapes, which can also most often be clearly seen by comparing our natural experiences in time and space. But what is less visible is that nature is also losing its ability to provide ecosystem services – pollination, air and water purification, flood mitigation, maintaining soil health and many others.

In order to preserve and restore biological diversity, a scientific approach, professional and practical experience, resources, and cooperation with landowners and residents are needed. This is also the basis of our projects – the practical restoration of nature.

We also invite every citizen to implement practices in their everyday life that help preserve and build biodiversity!