The GCBR MAB YOUTH visited Grade 10 and 11 learners from Langenhoven High School to raise awareness about the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB), celebrated annually on May 22. This event, led by the Convention on Biological Diversity, emphasizes the critical importance of biodiversity and promotes actions to protect it. The theme for 2024, “Be Part of the Plan,” calls on all stakeholders to support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, also known as the Biodiversity Plan. More information can be found on the official website
Figure 1: Leaners from Langenhoven High School and GCBR MABYouth members
Engaging Presentation on Biodiversity
The day’s activities began with a presentation by Leila Moosajee about biodiversity. We discussed what biodiversity is, why it is essential, and how it affects everything from the air we breathe to the food we eat. The learners were eager to learn and asked thoughtful questions, leading to lively discussions about conservation efforts and their role in protecting our environment.
Figure 2: Leila Moosajee presenting on biodiversity
How does the GCBR promote biodiversity?
We also highlighted the work of the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR) in promoting biodiversity. The GCBR engages in various activities, such as clearing invasive alien plants, monitoring rivers, and restoring degraded areas by replanting indigenous species. Additionally, the GCBR establishes and maintains ecological corridors through landscape rehabilitation and sustainable land-use practices. This project enhances ecological processes along mountain ranges, rivers, and micro corridors. It aims to implement strategies for fire management, invasive plant control, and improved river and wetland health through collaboration with farmers and landowners. The project promotes practical and cooperative landscape-scale solutions by identifying and addressing environmental threats and opportunities.
The Web of Life Activity
To bring the concept of connectivity to life, we planned a “web of life” activity. This hands-on exercise involved each learner representing a different species or element within an ecosystem. Using strings to connect each participant, we demonstrated how every part of the ecosystem is interconnected. When one string was pulled or let go, the entire web was affected, visually showing the impact of losing even one species. This powerful visual helped the learners understand the balance of ecosystems and the consequences of biodiversity loss.
Call to Action: Be Part of the Plan
The theme “Be Part of the Plan” encourages everyone to take action to stop and reverse the loss of biodiversity. By supporting the implementation of the Biodiversity Plan, we can all contribute to protecting our planet’s natural resources. IDB 2024 aims to increase visibility and momentum leading up to the sixteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP 16), to be held in Colombia from October 21 to November 1, 2024.
The Importance of Biodiversity
Biological diversity is the foundation of our ecosystems, supporting life and providing essential resources. It includes not only the variety of plants, animals, and microorganisms but also the genetic differences within species and the variety of ecosystems themselves. Biodiversity is crucial for food security, health, and overall well-being. However, biodiversity loss poses significant threats, including the increased risk of infectious diseases and the degradation of natural resources.
By raising awareness and fostering a connection with nature in young minds, we can cultivate a generation that values and actively works towards a sustainable future. We can all “Be Part of the Plan” through education and community involvement and contribute to a healthier, more resilient planet.