In order to increase understanding and emphasize the importance of biodiversity, in 1993 the United Nations declared International Biodiversity Day. It is celebrated every year on May 22 as a memorial to May 22, 1992, the date of adoption of the text of the Convention on Biodiversity. The Republic of Croatia has joined the world in its efforts to preserve biodiversity and improve nature protection, so by the decision of the Croatian Parliament from 2003, it was decided that May 22nd is the Day of Nature Protection in the Republic of Croatia.
This year's Biodiversity Day is held under the motto: From agreement to action: Let's restore biodiversity. It is important to know that not only experts are involved in biodiversity, but everyone can get involved and help to slow down and stop the negative trend of biodiversity loss. Educational, recreational, professional and other activities are organized on the Day of Nature Protection, which appropriately encourage and promote nature protection, and the Ministry of Culture traditionally awards in the field of nature protection.
The term biological diversity means all the diversity of life on Earth - habitats, populations and genes, and its disruption can have far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and human life. The Republic of Croatia is one of the richest countries in Europe in terms of biodiversity. About 40,000 species have been officially recorded, and it is estimated that there are many more.
Croatia also abounds in numerous endemics, especially flora, where more than 480 endemic species have been recorded. Biodiversity is crucial for many human activities, such as food production, which would not be possible without fertile soil, water and pollinators. Plants produce oxygen through the process of photosynthesis, and half of the carbon dioxide we release into the atmosphere is absorbed by natural systems in the soil and sea, thus playing a huge role in slowing down climate change.
Prepared by: Andrea Božić