International Day for Biological Diversity is today, May 22! The United Nations proclaimed the day to increase awareness of global biodiversity issues. It first occurred on December 29, 1993, when the Convention on Biological Diversity came into force. In December of 2000, it was agreed upon that the day would be May 22 as it was difficult for many countries to celebrate the day during the many holidays that fall in December. 

This year’s theme for the day is to Be a part of the plan! The goal is to act on the action plan that has already been agreed upon to increase and protect our planet’s biodiversity! International Biodiversity Day calls on everyone to re-examine their relationship with the natural world, acknowledging that when biodiversity is hurting, we are as well! A biodiversity problem is not just a humanity problem, it’s a problem that directly affects our well-being and survival. 

What is biodiversity?

The wide variety of life forms around the globe enact balance, including animals, plants, microorganisms, and insects. They also live in a variety of ecosystems: lakes, streams, forests, deserts, and agricultural landscapes.

22 things you can do this May 22 to promote biodiversity! 

Here are 22 things that you can do to promote biodiversity this International Biodiversity Day! These items are in line with global diversity framework and have been compiled by the WWF.

1. Ditch the Car! Participate in a green commute, take transit, ride your bike or walk to work!
2. Go paperless! Use your tech; try to take notes on your phone or laptop instead!
3. Choose reusable! Remember your coffee mug, water bottle, and containers! Let’s avoid purchasing unnecessary plastic packaging. 
4. Reduce your food waste by making a meal plan and sticking to it. Only buy what you need to eat. 
5. Ditch palm oil products! Or seek out sustainably sourced products from companies that put the planet over profit! 
6. Wash full loads only! We’ve all done it, but let’s be better together. Only start that load once it’s complete. Let’s reduce our energy and water use.
7. Learn to refuse! We don’t need the freebies, pens, bags, or notebooks. Most of these items end up in our junk drawer or in the trash. Let’s stop the cycle.
8. Source sustainable produce! Check out your local farmers market; selecting chemical-free local food is a great action to take. 
9. Travel sustainably! Check out lower-impact travel options when you can, like picking transit over a cab.
10. Use less water! Could you take a quicker shower? Or remember to turn the tap off sooner when doing the dishes. 
11. Reconnect with nature! Take yourself outside, find a trail and soak up all the earth’s goodness. Do you notice how many different species are on your local trail?
12. Reuse and Up-cycle! Instead of buying new, think used or repurposed! 
13. Spread the Word! Chat with your friends and family about biodiversity, natural areas local to you, or events going on to support the movement.
14. Take action against plastics! Bring your reusable mug & bottle! 
15. Don’t litter! Find the recycling bin or pack it in your bag when you get home! Also, be mindful to pick up trash safely while out in nature. 
16. Conserve energy! Turn off those lights, unplug those appliances and set your thermostat to energy-saving mode. 
17. Stay informed! Keep up to date with the news in your local area and globally! 
18. Volunteer! Is there a cause that is dear to you? A park clean up you could join! Check them out; this is a great way to meet people and protect our planet. 
19. Recycle whenever possible! 
20. Embrace minimalism! Think before you buy! You may have enough already!
21. Restore nature and biodiversity by buying native plants for your garden or bringing a little green into your home with a plant or herbs! 
22. Celebrate biodiversity! How are people celebrating in your city? Check out online and see if there is anything you would like to join!

What are you doing today? Share with us @housethirty!