What is Biodiversity?

According to the United Nations, the term biodiversity was first coined in 1985, a contraction of “biological diversity.” In broad terms it means all life on Earth from microbes to rainforests, and how that life interacts with each other. Essentially, it is the fabric that holds the planet – and every life on it – together.

Why is biodiversity important?

Biodiversity is vital. It plays a huge role in the integrity of forest, grasslands and marine ecosystems, and provides important adaptation functions such as buffering from climate extremes, regulating hydrological cycles, protecting soils, regulating temperatures in urban areas, reducing food insecurity and providing options for economic diversification, particularly during periods when climate change impacts reduce agricultural yields. All these functions are important, not just for the climate, but for life on Earth.

Our commitment

At Sports Sustainability International (SandSI), we understand the importance of biodiversity protection for sustainable development and are actively seeking ways to make a difference. By recognizing the importance of protecting biodiversity, we are able to help guide the whole sports industry towards more sustainable operations and responsible practices. We are committed to taking advantage of every opportunity to protect and restore the environment and its sensitive ecosystems. Our initiatives set an example for how the entire sports industry can be better stewards of the environment, by prioritizing conservation and restoring habitats. We believe that such actions will ultimately create a healthier way of life for everyone today and in the future.

Take a look at some good examples of best practices and recommendations to take into consideration when deciding in sustainable policies for your organization, and when communicating about them!