2010 has been declared the International Year of Biodiversity (IYB) by the United Nations. Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth – it is essential for sustaining the natural living systems or ecosystems that provide us with food, fuel, health, wealth, and other vital services. Humans are part of this biodiversity too and have the power to protect or destroy it. Currently, our activities are destroying biodiversity at alarming rates. These losses are irreversible and damage the life support systems we rely on.  

Biodiversity’s contribution to our lives is not just practical, physical and functional, it is also cultural. The diversity of the natural world has been a constant source of inspiration throughout human history, influencing traditions, the way our society has evolved and supplying the basic goods and services upon which trade and the economy is built. The disappearance of unique species is a loss that cannot be calculated and leaves us all much poorer. 

The loss of iconic and symbolic species is not only a cultural tragedy; it also undermines our own survival. The beautiful, bountiful diversity of the natural world is being damaged as a result of human activities. Felling or burning of forests, removal of mangroves, intensive farming, pollution stress, overfishing and the impacts of climate change are all destroying biodiversity. We can stop this loss, the question is – will we?  

The International Year of Biodiversity is our chance to prove we will.  

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) are home to some of the UK’s most exquisite and unusual wildlife species.  This rich biodiversity makes them special. The family of AONBs supports the aims of the International Year of Biodiversity – remember, biodiversity is life. 

For more information and to see what events are planned throughout the year, please visit www.biodiversityislife.net

International Year of Biodiversity Day – 22^nd May  

Join with the fun and activities on Saturday 22^nd May – not only the launch of the 6^th Lincolnshire Wolds Walking Festival but also the International Year of Biodiversity Day. Events include mini-beast hunts, a walk along the River Lud, having your face painted like a butterfly and even trying your hand, and feet?, at stilt walking – and seeing the world from above!  

See the events programme for more details or visit www.woldswalkingfestival.co.uk