The metro recently commemorated World Environment Day.
According to the United Nation’s Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, over a million species are facing extinction
As such, the whole world marks this day to raise awareness and increase understanding of biodiversity conservation.
Biodiversity is the variety of all species on earth, and the systems within which they function
It is comprised of different plants, animals and micro-organisms, including the terrestrial, marine and freshwater ecosystems of which they form a part.
Though the wellness of plants, species, and the ecosystem within which they find themselves, may not be an immediate concern for many, ultimately if biodiversity is not preserved, humans will also perish.
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Therefore, the City joined the world to dedicate the month of June to raise awareness of the preservation of biodiversity.
This year’s theme, dubbed Celebrate Biodiversity, aims to spread awareness of the dependency of our food systems, nutrition and health on biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.
The theme also celebrates the diversity provided by our natural systems for human existence and well-being.
“The City’s open space systems and biodiversity are under severe pressure from both competing land uses and a shortage of resources,” said Member of the Mayoral Committee for Environment Resources and Waste Management Services, Makhosazana Mabaso.
“The continued growth of Ekurhuleni’s population and economy is placing greater pressure on the environment, including our open spaces. The City has some unique environmental assets worthy of protection.
“It is, therefore, critical to ensure long term persistence of biodiversity and ecosystems, especially in the context of climate change and natural resource scarcity.”
Mabaso added that the main threats to the biodiversity, particularly in Ekurhuleni, include fragmentation and degradation of habitat, the spread of invasive species, unsustainable use of natural resources, climate change and changes to the aquatic environment and water flows.
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Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za, Leigh Hodgson (News Editor) leighh@caxton.co.za or Busi Vilakazi (Journalist) busiv@caxton.co.za.
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