Humanity is only as healthy as the species and ecosystems that support us. For example, three out of four food crops require pollinators like bees. Robust forests regulate the water so crucial for many things. Even cities can be designed to act as sponges, with green spaces capturing rainfall to keep us safe from floods.
Governments have recognized the need to work with, not against, nature. Under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework they have promised to protect 30 percent of land, water and seas, and restore 30 percent of damaged ecosystems by 2030.
You can help play a role in the restoration process.
On 22 May, the world will mark the International Day of Biological Diversity, which will be held under the theme acting locally for global impact. Here are five ways in which you can support biodiversity from right where you are.
1. Plant a tree to grow a future
Trees are among natures most powerful allies. They clean the air, provide shade, prevent soil erosion and offer habitat for countless species.
Planting a tree may seem like a small act, but it can have long-lasting benefits. A single seedling can grow into a towering tree that supports life for decades. However, successful tree-planting goes beyond putting a sapling in the ground. It means caring for it, ensuring it survives and thrives.
Choosing the right species is equally important. Native trees are often best suited to local ecosystems and therefore support biodiversity more effectively. The guiding principle is simple: plantthe right tree in the right place at the right time.
Check out this tree-growing crash course to learn more.
2. Create an insect haven to help nature bloom
Insects make up around 75-90 per cent of all known animal species. However, they are under increasing pressure. Habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change are driving many species into decline, despite their essential role in the survival of all life on Earth.
Pollinators such as bees and butterflies enable plants to reproduce by carrying pollen from flower to flower, supporting food production and healthy ecosystems.
One simple way to help is by planting a wildflower meadow. Even a small patch, whether in a garden, along a roadside or on a balcony, can provide food and shelter for insects. Insect hotels constructed from natural materials provide shelter, nesting and hibernation sites. Before long, these spaces come alive with colour, movement and sound, as nature begins to recover.
3. Choose what you buy wisely
Everyday consumption decisions can have significant environmental consequences.
For example, half of the worlds habitable land is used for farming and the way people farm has a big impact on biodiversity. Dietary choice represents one of the largest opportunities for individuals in many parts of the world to support biodiversity. Lean toward a locally appropriate diet rich in plants, like fruits and vegetables, which can improve your health as well as protect the planet. Also, plan meals ahead of time and use leftovers to reduce food waste.
4. Steer clear of harmful chemicals
Many everyday products, from cleaning supplies to personal care items, contain chemicals that can harm ecosystems when they enter waterways and soils.
Fortunately, natural alternatives are increasingly available. From plant-based cleaning solutions to organic personal care products, small substitutions can make a meaningful difference. Just check that plant-based inputs like oils are sustainably grown.
In gardens and green spaces, reducing chemical inputs is equally important. Using natural pest control and organic fertilizers, like kitchen compost, can help protect soil health and supports biodiversity.
Like our bodies, healthy ecosystems start with what we put into them.
5. Raise your voice for a resilient planet
Governments have already promised to restore 1 billion hectares of degraded ecosystems worldwide an area larger than China. But more action and funding are needed to achieve global nature goals by 2030.
The race to protect and restore biodiversity is a whole-of-society effort. Beyond your kitchen, backyard and immediate surroundings, you can also:
- fund, support, join initiatives that protect nature;
- stay informed and curious about global biodiversity updates; and
- learn what your country or region is doing to achieve biodiversity targets, while encouraging your leaders to accelerate action.
About the International Day of Biodiversity
The United Nations has proclaimed May 22 The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) 2026, Acting locally for global impact, is a call for us all to take action to halt and reverse biodiversity loss. Protecting biodiversity includes action close to home with positive ripple effects that can reach far beyond.
About the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration
The UN General Assembly has declared 20212030 a UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. Led by the UN Environment Programme and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN, together with the support of partners, it is designed to prevent, halt, and reverse the loss and degradation of ecosystems worldwide. It aims at reviving billions of hectares, covering terrestrial as well as aquatic ecosystems. A global call to action, the UN Decade draws together political support, scientific research, and financial muscle to massively scale up restoration.
Story written by Ann-Kathrine Neureuther
Reviewed by: Adriana Rivera Brusatin, Julian Blanc
