Introduction The United Nations has proclaimed May 22 The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. When first created by the Second Committee of the UN General Assembly in late 1993, 29 December (the date of entry into force of the Convention of Biological Diversity), was designated The International Day for Biological Diversity. In December 2000, the UN General Assembly adopted 22 May as IDB, to commemorate the adoption of the text of the Convention on 22 May 1992 by the Nairobi Final Act of the Conference for the Adoption of the Agreed Text of the Convention on Biological Diversity. This was partly done because it was difficult for many countries to plan and carry out suitable celebrations for the date of 29 December, given the number of holidays that coincide around that time of year. IDB theme 2025 - Harmony with nature and sustainable development The IDB 2025 campaign seeks to focus the world’s attention on the linkages between the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Goals and Targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) (The Biodiversity Plan) as two universal agendas that must be pursued in tandem in the spirit of the recently adopted Pact for the future. Key messages Biodiversity is the foundation of all life on Earth. It is fundamental to human well-being, a healthy planet, and economic prosperity for all people. We depend on it for food, medicine, energy, clean air and water, protection from natural disasters as well as recreation and cultural inspiration. The KMGBF sets out an ambitious blueprint for the transformation of our societies’ relationship with nature, in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals and the Pact for the future. The implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals brings about or catalyzes society- and economy-wide transformations, including in agrifood systems, infrastructure, industry, energy systems consumption and production patterns, water and ecosystem management, urban planning, education, and gender equality. These transformations are essential to the achievement of the KMGBF and the fulfillment of its vision: “life in harmony with nature”. The 23 action targets of the KMGBF are aligned with the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development and its 17 SDGs and contribute to their achievement. The streams of national implementation of the KMGBF and the SDGs must reflect this alignment through greater integration and synergies. All Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity are expected to prepare National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPS) reflecting the ambition of the KMGBF. To maximize synergy, the NBSAPs should be integrated into broader National Sustainable Development Strategies guided by the SDGs and the Pact for the Future. Success in the implementation of the KMGBF and the SDGs requires a whole-of-government, whole-of-society endeavor. We need all hands on deck, including those of indigenous peoples and local communities, businesses, women and youth. Here is a non-exhaustive list of steps you can take to be part of the Plan: Protect and restore Add new healthy or local foods to your diet. Moderate consumption of meat and fish reduces pressure on natural resources. Consume fruit and vegetables in season. Reduce waste by shopping sensibly. Compost food waste. Repair, re-use and recycle anything from home appliances to clothing. Learn how your use of chemicals (example: chemicals contained in detergents, pesticides and cosmetics) affects biodiversity and use this knowledge to adopt environmentally friendly alternatives. Prosper with nature Choose fresh produce from local markets and support bio-products. Favor products with fair trade certifications or eco-friendly labels when making purchasing decisions. Support and promote ecological tourism. Your next adventure does not have to leave a giant carbon footprint: consider nearby destinations. Explain the value of biodiversity to those around you. There is plenty of fun to be had while avoiding activities that disturb fauna and flora. Share benefits fairly Learn about the concept of benefit-sharing that is enshrined in Article 15 of the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Nagoya Protocol that complements it. Respect the knowledge, practices and innovations of indigenous peoples and local communities in relation to biodiversity and recognize their rights to land and resources. Invest and collaborate Enquire about corporate social responsibility policies before buying a company’s products. Invest in green businesses or start a green business of your own. Engage with political officials from your region and/or with local representatives (example: the Member of Parliament for your region and/or the mayor of your city) and request information on what the authorities are doing to implement the Biodiversity Plan. Related Resources 22 Actions for Biodiversity All about The Convention on Biological Diversity Aichi Biodiversity Targets The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety The Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-sharing The State of the World’s Forests 2024. Source : Convention on Biological diversity