Why in News
On 22nd May, the International Day for Biological Diversity was observed with the theme “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development.” It emphasized the importance of conserving biodiversity while cities grow rapidly.
What is Urban Biodiversity?
Definition
Urban Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms (plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms) found within urban areas such as parks, rooftops, wetlands, lakes, and even built structures.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Green spaces | Parks, gardens, green belts, roadside trees |
| Blue spaces | Lakes, rivers, ponds, canals, wetlands |
| Built structures | Walls, roofs, and abandoned buildings providing homes for animals |
| Wildlife corridors | Tree-lined roads or green patches that connect habitats |
Examples
- Okhla Bird Sanctuary in Delhi (wetland)
- Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Chennai (urban forest)
- Mutha and Mula Rivers in Pune (support freshwater biodiversity)
Why is Urban Biodiversity Important?
| Area | Importance |
|---|---|
| Climate Regulation | Green spaces reduce city temperatures and absorb carbon dioxide |
| Pollution Control | Trees filter air pollutants, reduce noise, and trap dust |
| Water Management | Wetlands recharge groundwater and help in flood control |
| Health and Recreation | Parks improve mental health, provide space for exercise and community interaction |
| Pollination and Food | Pollinators like bees help in agriculture and food production |
| Economic Benefits | Trees and green spaces add value to property and reduce costs related to air-conditioning |
| Global Commitments | Supports SDG-11 (Sustainable Cities) and Global Biodiversity Framework Target 12 |
Key Issues Affecting Urban Biodiversity
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Urban Expansion | Cities are spreading rapidly, reducing green spaces |
| Forest Cover Loss | Cities like Chennai and Hyderabad have lost forest areas recently |
| Heat Island Effect | Cities are hotter than surrounding areas, affecting wildlife behavior |
| Wetland Destruction | Example: Only 15% of Chennai’s wetlands remain |
| Pollution | Air and water pollution threaten biodiversity (e.g., Bellandur Lake) |
Measures to Enhance Urban Biodiversity
| Strategy | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Green Infrastructure | Develop urban forests, green roofs, and parks |
| 3-30-300 Rule | Ensure: 3 trees visible from every home, 30% city canopy, park within 300m |
| City Biodiversity Index | Used to monitor biodiversity in cities like Kochi and Nagpur |
| Wetland Protection | Prevent dumping, treat sewage, and restore degraded wetlands |
| Decentralized Greening | Community-led efforts for small parks and green corners |
| Biodiversity in Urban Planning | Include ecological assessments in urban development plans |
| Legal Action | Enforce penalties against illegal encroachment on green areas |
Case Studies
- Chennai’s Koyambedu market project increased biodiversity through native forest planting
- Pallikaranai Marsh restored and declared a Ramsar site
- Supreme Court protected trees in Hyderabad’s Kancha Gachibowli area from destruction
International Day for Biological Diversity
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | Celebrated on 22nd May |
| Background | Marks the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity in 1992 |
| Earlier Date | Originally observed on 29th December (entry into force of the CBD) |
| Biodiversity Concept | Coined by Walter G. Rosen in 1985 |
| Importance to Humans | – Fish provide 20% of animal protein to 3 billion people |
- 80% of rural populations use traditional plant-based medicines
- Plants form over 80% of human diet |
Conclusion
Urban biodiversity is essential for climate resilience, health, and economic well-being. With rapid urbanization, cities must integrate biodiversity into planning through rules like the 3-30-300 rule, protection of water bodies, and legal safeguards. Sustainable urban development should go hand-in-hand with ecological preservation for future generations.
