International Day for Biodiversity is observed annually on May 22. This year’s theme is “We’re part of the solution #ForNature”.
One of the activities that the National Biodiversity Office in Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management held to commemorate this day was a national poster competition. Three entries from Corozal came out on top. First place went to Carissia Gomez; Rosella Correa garnered the second place title; and Kristyn Tillett came in third. The winning posters will be displayed in front of the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management. The aim of the competition was to engage youth on the measures that can be taken at an individual and community level to contribute to reducing the threats to biodiversity in Belize.
Belize, recognized as a world biodiversity hotspot, has ratified the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) since December 30, 1993. Through a network of 113 protected areas countrywide, Belize has successfully maintained over 61% of intact forested lands supporting the protection of approximately 577 species of birds, 163 mammals, 141 species of reptiles and 3,408 species of plants including 613 medicinal plants.
Biodiversity is integral to sustaining our daily lives, through the provision of food, clean water, storm and flood protection, medicine, climate regulation and raw materials central to housing and transportation. Recognizing that improving livelihoods, food security, economic recovery and human health depends on the conservation of biodiversity, this year’s theme challenges us to be good stewards. This can be achieved by reducing water wastage at home, reducing use of plastics, participating in environmental clubs, and adhering to environmental regulations as we are collectively all a part of the solution!
Happy International Day for Biodiversity to all!
