UNESCO’s Post

🌿 Restoring the Heart of Brazil's Atlantic Forest! 🇧🇷 Did you know that the Atlantic Forest in Brazil is one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, yet it's also one of the most endangered? Today, let's talk about the incredible importance of restoring this precious ecosystem and why it's a cause worth championing. The Atlantic Forest is not just a collection of trees; it's a vibrant tapestry of life, home to thousands of plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth. But rampant deforestation over the years has taken its toll, threatening the very existence of this ecological gem. 🌅 However, there's hope on the horizon. Conservation efforts and restoration initiatives are gaining momentum, thanks to the dedication of scientists, environmentalists, and local communities. By replanting native trees, restoring degraded areas, and implementing sustainable land management practices, we can breathe new life into the Atlantic Forest. 🤔 But why should we care about saving this distant forest? Because the health of the Atlantic Forest impacts us all, no matter where we are. It's a vital carbon sink, helping to mitigate climate change and regulate our planet's climate. Its watersheds provide clean drinking water to millions of people, and its rich biodiversity holds untold potential for scientific discovery and medicine. 🌍 Moreover, investing in the restoration of the Atlantic Forest is an investment in our collective future. It creates jobs, supports local economies, and fosters a deeper connection between people and nature. 🤝 So, let's join hands and be the Retopia change-makers this world needs! 📸 Chess Bonte #AtlanticForestRestoration #Conservation #Retopia

🌲 This Earth Day, let's contemplate the significance of our invaluable forest ecosystems and strategies for their preservation. 💚 The#LIFEFAGESOS initiative is striving to safeguard and preserve these delicate natural habitats. Through tangible efforts such as forest conservation and biodiversity promotion, we remain dedicated to upholding the splendor and ecological diversity of our forests. 🌳 Each individual possesses the power to effect change. Whether it's adopting sustainable practices or actively engaging in reforestation endeavors, we all play a vital role in nurturing the health and resilience of our forest ecosystems. Here’s an initiative worth sharing for the Italian territory: https://lnkd.in/dbpwGQ_h 🤝 Let's collaborate in safeguarding our forests and forging a sustainable future for generations to come. #EarthDay #LIFEProgramme #LIFEAmplifiers #LIFEFAGESOS #ForestConservation #EnvironmentalSustainability

🌍✨ Today, 11 May, is the World Migratory Bird Day! 🐦 🌿 Did you know migratory birds travel thousands of miles each year, connecting ecosystems and cultures worldwide? Migratory birds are not just beautiful creatures that grace our skies; they are integral to the sustainability of ecosystems worldwide. The following are only a few of the multiple ways these birds promote the sustainability of our planet: 🟢Biodiversity Stewards: Migratory birds maintain biodiversity by dispersing seeds and controlling insect populations. 🟢Ecosystem Health Barometers: They serve as indicators of ecosystem health, reflecting environmental conditions. 🟢Ecosystem Service Providers: They provide essential ecosystem services like pollination and seed dispersal. 🟢Cultural Icons: These creatures are part of some cultures’ heritage and connect communities worldwide. 🟢Global Cooperation Catalysts: Their migrations underscore the need for international cooperation in conservation efforts. Read more on the dedicated webpage of UN’s relevant organisation: https://buff.ly/2Fn0Rn5 Let's honour their incredible journeys and the importance of preserving their habitats for a sustainable future. 🐦☁️ #WorldMigratoryBirdDay2024 #MigratoryBirds #Sustainability #JourneyToASustainableFuture #GreenHorizon 🌐 GH Website: https://buff.ly/48SfPjv

In the lush landscapes of Colombia, a country adorned with majestic mountaintops, dense jungles, and meandering rivers, lie hidden gems of global ecological importance – our wetlands. 🌿🌊 The Ramsar Convention has recognized six Colombian wetlands as Wetlands of International Importance. These sites are not just Colombian treasures but are vital for the entire planet. Here's a spotlight on these ecological wonders: Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta, Magdalena River Delta Estuary System: Colombia's largest wetland lagoon, a sanctuary for migratory and endemic birds, faces threats from infrastructure projects and environmental changes. Chingaza Wetlands System: High in the Andes, this system provides 80% of Bogotá’s drinking water and is home to endangered species like the spectacled bear. Otún Lagoon Wetlands Complex: A biodiversity hotspot in Los Nevados National Park, under pressure from various human activities. Baudó River Delta: Known for its powerful flow into the Pacific, this river delta is facing challenges from mangrove removal and overfishing. Estrella Fluvial del Inírida Wetlands Complex: A biodiverse transition zone between the Orinoco and Amazon, threatened by illegal mining and deforestation. La Cocha Lagoon: Sitting 2,800 meters above sea level, this lagoon is a crucial habitat for unique species but is imperiled by human activities. These wetlands are invaluable for their role in water regulation, habitat provision, and climate change mitigation. They're also crucial sources of freshwater and are celebrated for their economic, cultural, and scientific significance. Yet, these vital ecosystems face growing threats: overexploitation, deforestation, pollution, and climate change impacts. As stewards of these natural wonders, we must amplify our efforts to protect them. 🎬 Colombia's rich wetlands have inspired iconic films like "El Abrazo de la Serpiente" and "La Sirga", showcasing their beauty and significance. As we celebrate these natural wonders, let's also commit to their protection. It's a duty we owe to our planet and future generations. 🌏💚 #WetlandConservation #EnvironmentalStewardship #ColombianBiodiversity #RamsarConvention #SustainableDevelopment

Celebrating World Lizard Day Today, on World Lizard Day, I want to take a moment to appreciate these often-overlooked creatures that play a vital role in our ecosystems. Lizards, with their incredible diversity and adaptability, serve as essential indicators of environmental health and biodiversity. As we face the accelerating impacts of climate change and habitat destruction, these resilient reptiles remind us of the importance of preserving the delicate balance of nature. Recent biodiversity trends have highlighted the alarming rate of species decline, with reptiles among the most vulnerable. Conservation efforts are more critical than ever. Lizards, like many other species, are affected by habitat loss, pollution, and the introduction of invasive species. By focusing on sustainable practices and supporting conservation initiatives, we can help protect these fascinating creatures and ensure the stability of our ecosystems. Let’s use this day to raise awareness about the importance of lizards and the broader significance of biodiversity in sustaining our planet's health. #WorldLizardDay #Biodiversity #Sustainability #Conservation

Why mapping the uncharted matters. Did you know that beneath the surface of our oceans lie hidden treasures waiting to be discovered? These submerged gems represent critical hope spots for biodiversity and the livelihood of countless communities. Imagine uncharted reefs as hidden dots on the seabed map, waiting to be connected and explored. Each dot holds immense potential, not only for unlocking the mysteries of our oceans but also for safeguarding the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. Mapping these uncharted reefs isn't just about filling in the blanks on a map—it's about protecting the very heartbeat of our oceans. By shedding light on these hidden havens, we pave the way for conservation efforts that can preserve biodiversity and support the livelihoods of coastal communities around the world. Every dot on the map represents more than just a geographical feature—it's a beacon of hope for the future of our planet. Let's join forces to uncover and protect these vital ecosystems, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. Ini Karang Kita

A touch late for a post on #BiodiversityDay (International Day of Biological Diversity), but I spent time yesterday thinking about biodiversity, nature, why it matters to me and why I think it is so important for corporates and financial institutions to be prioritizing consideration of nature in their strategic agendas. I could spend a lot of time opining on all those things, but, there's plenty of great reports and resources around that can do that. So, instead I'll just use this chance to talk about nature itself. To share some of the information about the nature in the part of the world that I live in, and share a photo of beautiful Lutruwita/Tasmania, which I think has some of the most special, precious and spectacular nature there is. > Australia is 1 of 17 of the world's ’megadiverse’ countries > 70% of global biological diversity is contained in Australia, on less than 10% of the world’s surface. > 7-10% of all species are found in Australia, with many of these species only found in Australia > Australia's Great Barrier Reef has lost over half of its coral cover in the last three decades due to climate change, pollution, and other factors. > 34 species have been added to the Threatened Species List from 2020 to 2021 > >50% of Australia’s forests and bushlands have been removed, replaced or significantly degraded > $6.4 trillion is the estimated value of Australia’s natural capital in 2016-17 Of course there is an abundance of examples of similar statistics for the globe, but there is something about this day that makes me think of the nature in the part of the world I call home. I hope you have had the chance to spend some time in nature recently, to think about how and why nature is so important for all of us not just because it is beautiful and makes us feel good - but because it is the foundation of our global economy - everything on this planet is part of nature and all financial value can be traced back to natural capital (humans are part of nature too!). I hope you can also consider what tangible steps you can take in your role to halt and reverse nature loss, and restore and regenerate nature. #nature #biodiversity #naturepositive Alexis Matthew Ana Luci Amy Masaki Lucy David Brandon For those interested, this is a photo from the spectacular Fluted Cape walk on Bruny Island.

It's widely known that our oceans are changing. Sea levels are rising, waters are warming, and coral reefs are vanishing, but what implications does this have for us? Around 25% of marine fish species rely on these reefs, which support over 7,000 species of fish, invertebrates, plants, and marine mammals. And since coral reefs are natural wave breakers, they protect coastal communities from high waves, strong currents, and storm surges. They also provide protection for coastlines, create jobs, and support local economies through tourism, such as fishing, diving, and snorkelling. They are vital for food and the discovery of new medicines. Over half a billion people depend on reefs for food, income, and protection. The list goes on! In efforts to preserve these critical ecosystems, projects like those undertaken by Holcim Philippines and rrreefs are pivotal. Using low-carbon cement called ECOPlanet, Holcim supplied bases for 500 units of modular artificial reefs in the Philippines, designed to promote coral regeneration and provide a thriving habitat for fish. These innovations are part of a broader initiative to restore marine biodiversity, with rrreefs contributing ongoing scientific data to monitor the project's impact. Holcim has developed marine bioactive concrete, which encourages rapid colonisation by marine life and enhances the structural integrity and ecological function of artificial reefs. There's more to read in the article, which is linked in the comments. What are your thoughts on this initiative to support marine life rehabilitation?

🌿 Did You Know? Fun Fact of the Day! 🌿 Did you know nestled in the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina lies the ancient Perućica forest? 🍃 A testament to nature's resilience, this lush jungle within Sutjeska National Park is a biodiversity haven. Here, trees soar skyward for over 300 years, providing sanctuary to a myriad of wildlife and plant species. But Perućica's beauty is more than just skin deep. As a significant carbon sink, it plays a crucial role in our planet's health, combating climate change by capturing carbon dioxide. This synergy between natural preservation and renewable energy efforts exemplifies the importance of safeguarding our natural treasures. Perućica's enduring presence serves as a beacon for sustainable practices and the promotion of renewable energy sources, reminding us of the critical importance of nature conservation. 🌍💚 #DidYouKnow #FunFact #RenewableEnergy #BosniaAndHerzegovina #PerućicaForest #Sustainability #NatureConservation

Canary Islands can be pioneer in Ocean Restoration. Our oceans have suffered a significant decline in biodiversity and health. However, the Canary Islands are leading the way towards marine restoration. Thanks to the European initiative “Restore Our Oceans and Waters by 2030” and the recent Nature Restoration Act, we are seeing impressive progress. With 88 collaborations in 60 projects and an investment of 17 million euros, Canary Islands are at the forefront of biodiversity conservation, pollution prevention and the restoration of key marine habitats. 🌱🐟   PLOCAN works to accelerate this transition towards ocean sustainability, innovation, knowledge sharing and promote large-scale solutions, as collaboration in #WINBLUE and Bluemissionaa projects. Find out more in the restoration of our oceans in Tania Montoto's article🔗, https://lnkd.in/dd4V-h5U #OceanRestoration #MarineConservation #Canary Islands #Sustainability #PLOCAN#BlueEconomy #GenderEquality #EmpoweringWomen #HorizonEU #EU_MARE