International Day for Biological Diversity 2025, Date, Theme, Convention, Laws

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International Day for Biological Diversity 2025 Theme 

The International Day for Biological Diversity 2025 theme is "Harmony with nature and sustainable development." This theme highlights the crucial relationship between protecting biodiversity and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as fulfilling the objectives of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

The theme for International Day for Biological Diversity 2025 calls for united global efforts to live more sustainably and in balance with nature, emphasizing the importance of systemic change and widespread participation from all parts of society.

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What is Biological Diversity? 

Biological diversity, or biodiversity, refers to the variety of life on Earth. It includes all living organisms and the ecosystems they form. It covers diversity within species, between species, and within ecosystems. 

Biodiversity includes everything from ants and algae to tigers and trees. It also includes invisible microbes in soil that help plants grow. This variety keeps nature balanced.

Healthy biodiversity provides ecosystem services. These include pollination of crops, control of pests, soil fertility, and climate regulation. Without biodiversity, food security and human health would suffer. That’s why protecting it is crucial.

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Convention on Biological Diversity

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is a global agreement to conserve biodiversity, use it sustainably, and share benefits fairly. It was signed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 and came into force in 1993. Over 190 countries, including India, are parties to the CBD. It is legally binding but does not replace the national laws.

Countries are required to create national biodiversity strategies and laws according to this convention. The CBD has three core objectives:

1. Conservation of biological diversity (including genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity)

2. Sustainable use of the components of biological diversity

3. Fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources

The CBD meets regularly through Conferences of the Parties (COP). These meetings track progress, set new targets, and adopt action plans. For instance, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted at COP15, sets a roadmap till 2030.

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Biological Diversity Laws in India

India is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. It has rich flora and fauna spread across mountains, deserts, forests, and coasts. To protect this wealth, India has enacted several laws. Key biodiversity laws in India include:

• Biological Diversity Act, 2002: India’s key law for biodiversity conservation, enacted to meet its commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

• Forest Conservation Act, 1980: This Act restricts the use of forest land for non-forest purposes without prior approval from the Central Government, aiming to prevent deforestation and ensure sustainable management of forest resources.

• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: This Act prohibits hunting, poaching, and trade of wild animals and plants, establishes protected areas, and provides for the conservation of wildlife and their habitats in India.

• Environment Protection Act, 1986: This Act empowers the Central Government to take all necessary measures to protect and improve the environment and to prevent, control, and abate environmental pollution.

Apart from these, India has also developed its National Biodiversity Action Plan. Under this, each state has created a State Biodiversity Board and formed Biodiversity Management Committees at the local level.

Biological Diversity Act 2023

India amended its original biodiversity law, the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, in 2023. The Biological Diversity Act 2023 updated some key provisions of the 2002 Act. The changes were made to simplify processes and promote ease of doing research and business while still protecting biodiversity.

Key highlights of the Biological Diversity Act 2023:

• Exemption for traditional Indian medicine practitioners from sharing benefits.

• Relaxation for Indian companies using biological resources.

• Clearer rules for access and benefit-sharing.

• Encouragement of scientific research and sustainable use of biodiversity.

Biological Diversity Day 2025 Celebration

The Biological Diversity Day 2025 celebration will take place on May 22, 2025, across the globe. In India, schools, colleges, NGOs, government bodies, and communities are expected to participate actively. Typical celebration activities may include:

• Awareness campaigns and educational programs

• Tree planting drives and biodiversity walks

• Poster-making and essay competitions

• Seminars, webinars, and expert talks on biodiversity

• Exhibitions showcasing local flora and fauna

• Community clean-up and conservation initiatives.

Celebrations help create a sense of responsibility. They make people feel connected to nature. That’s the main aim of the International Day for Biological Diversity 2025—to inspire action at every level for ensuring harmony with nature and sustainable development.

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