Biodiversity

All animal and plant species have requirements for their habitat and define and shape it themselves. In this way, a complex functional network forms the ecosystems we know, such as forests, meadows, bodies of water, and so on. Through natural dynamics, a mosaic of habitats emerges with a high number of species that positively influence one another and stimulate energy flow and nutrient cycles within an ecosystem.

In general, a habitat with high biological diversity is more resilient to disturbances (whether natural or human-induced) and more productive. This diversity is directly reflected in economic aspects and also secures services and goods that are important to us humans.

One third of the plants occurring worldwide require the help of animals such as insects, birds, or bats for pollination. One third of global food production depends directly or indirectly on pollination by insects. As the largest group, 20,000 bee species are responsible for 80 percent of insect pollination.

An important starting point for preserving and promoting biological diversity is the conservation of different habitats. This not only benefits the many animal and plant species that are already endangered, but also increases the quality of life for us humans.

Poster series by the Environmental Umbrella Organization (Website in German only)