Our Definition
Biodiversity is often defined as the number and distribution of species within a particular location. This definition fails to account for the complex interrelations between wild species, their habitats, and human society.
Throughout this campaign, we are advocating for a more holistic measure of biodiversity that considers the interconnected nature of life. From fungi that create underground networks along tree roots to animals that walk under the canopy and the bacteria they consume, each organism works with their neighbors to form unique and balanced ecosystems. Each organism has a purpose. Our goal is to promote a public understanding of biodiversity and conservation that encompasses all components of the natural world, and that highlights the role humanity plays within it.
As the second largest country in the world, Canada encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems. It is home to a unique set of 80,000 species, each perfectly suited to thrive in their respective environments.
Yet nearly half of monitored Canadian species have experienced declines in abundance, and 20% are at risk of extinction. Beyond Canada’s borders, we have seen similar widespread declines in biodiversity as biologists continue to raise the alarm of a sixth mass extinction underway.
There are five main drivers of biodiversity loss: habitat loss (including land-use and sea-use change), climate change, invasive species, overexploitation of resources, and pollution. We understand that risks to biodiversity are complex and interconnected. While our campaign can only address a fraction of the issues that biodiversity faces in Canada, we hope to illuminate the scale of the crisis.
Why Biodiversity Loss Matters
Humans are deeply reliant upon the healthy function of countless natural systems. Ecosystem services refer to the direct and indirect ways in which a healthy environment can support vibrant and healthy human communities.
Since the last ice age, stable environmental conditions have played a critical role in the evolution of human societies. With biodiversity loss, we threaten to dramatically disrupt the Earth systems and services upon which we rely. Research has shown that biodiversity has a comparable impact on ecosystem services to other major threats like climate change.
Biodiversity can be seen as a puzzle. The more pieces (or species) in a puzzle, the more difficult it will be to disrupt the image. Ecosystems with a variety of species are more productive and stable than those with less biodiversity. As climate warms and human impacts accelerate, the ability of ecosystems to be resilient will be critical to their continued persistence. By conserving biodiversity we are also helping secure a future for humanity for years to come.
